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Chinese zodiac fortune predictions
Put away those bunny ears and crank up the heat, it’s time to say goodbye to the Rabbit and enter the Year of the Dragon – the only mythical creature among the 12 Chinese zodiac signs. In addition to eating auspicious food and giving/receiving blessings, Lunar New Year – which falls on February 10 this year – is also a time for many to consult the stars and find out what’s in store for the months to come. Enter the Year of the Dragon: A 2024 guide to Lunar New Year Most people know the basics: The 12-year Chinese zodiac calendar cycle is represented by 12 different animals, in this order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Your zodiac animal is determined by your year of birth, meaning those born in 2024 will fall under the Dragon sign. Those born in 2025 will be Snakes, and so on. But that’s only the start. For faithful followers of the system, a year isn’t just categorized by its animal. There’s also a complex sexagenary cycle made up of 10 heavenly stems and 12 earthly branches.   2024 is the year of the Wood Dragon Every year, a heavenly stem (one of five elements, which fall into the yin or yang category) is paired with an earthly branch (one of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals). This year combines the heavenly stem “Jia” – which represents yang wood – and the earthly branch “Chen” which represents the Dragon. That makes 2024 the Year of the Wood Dragon. Depending on what the elements represent and how they interact with each other, followers believe one can gain insights into what the coming months may hold. “Jia symbolizes wood and the Dragon is a very earthy creature,” says Thierry Chow, a Hong Kong-based consultant who blends traditional Chinese geomancy with modern design elements. “The relationship between the two elements tells us a lot about the year. In the five elements, we say wood restricts earth. That means, in 2024, industries in the wood category would likely suppress those in the earth category.” Chow says industries with a strong wood presence – including culture, publishing and floristry – will be more likely to thrive than earth industries such as property development and mining. Regardless of which heavenly stem the Dragon is paired with, the sacred creature is a very popular zodiac sign, especially in Asia. “It’s believed that the Dragon represents strong and great leadership. A lot of people are looking to have Dragon babies this year,” says Chow. “This year will also be significant because it’s the year when the world enters a new chapter from the eighth period to the ninth period of Xuan Kong flying star.” She explains that there are nine Xuan Kong flying stars that affect the feng shui of the world. Each of them lords over us for two decades before passing the torch to the next star. The year 2024 marks the beginning of the next 20-year reign under the ninth flying star.   “The number nine star represents feminine energy – so ladies are going to take over in a lot of the areas. It also represents technology, art and design as well as spirituality,” says Chow. The nine stars could also help you decide which direction you should travel in the months to come. Chow encourages travelers to explore places in the southwest, northwest and east – doesn’t matter if these southern destinations are within their city or outside their country. The ‘Grand Duke of Jupiter’ lords over your luck As for individual luck, followers believe that their zodiac animal’s fortune depends on the positions of the Tai Shui – the stellar deities thought to rotate parallel to and in the opposite direction of Jupiter. To calculate how each person will be affected in a particular year, a Chinese geomancy consultant will look at one’s birth chart, which is composed of a wide range of elements based on different stars’ positions on the day and time of their birth, and see how their elements interact with the year. These combinations play an important role for those who follow them, helping them make huge life decisions for the year ahead, such as whether they should get married or start a business. While each individual will of course interact differently with the stars, most agree that analyzing Tai Sui’s position over each zodiac sign offers a general snapshot of the year to come. If your zodiac sign is out of favor with Tai Sui – aka the Grand Duke of Jupiter – that year, the experts say you might find yourself facing more disruptions and changes than usual. Chow says those impacted should remember the calendar is a rotating cycle. “I believe for every yang, there is always the yin, too. So don’t worry too much and just be mindful of how the world may shift, and it’ll help you with what you’re doing anyway,” says Chow. To resolve clashes, one could go to a Chinese temple and make offerings to representations of Tai Sui. While Chow recommends everyone visit a temple to bring positive thoughts, she especially encourages people born in the Year of the Dragon, Ox, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Horse to get some extra blessings this year. Dragon Every 12 years, we all have to face our “Ben Ming Nian” – the year when our own zodiac sign matches up with that of the current year. On February 10, we enter the Year of the Dragon. Unfortunately, that means more disruptions and changes could happen to those who were born in Dragon years. “For those who are born in the Dragon year, you would experience more rocky luck and a bit more limitations with work, relationships, etc, in general,” says Chow. “It’s a good year to stay low-profile and humble. The higher profile you try to be, the harder it’ll hit you.” At work, you may feel more competition than in previous years and money may not come as easily as before. “Stay grounded and try to save money as it’s going to be a tough year,” she says. “Let’s just do more window shopping and less actual shopping.” Not everything is negative, though. She lists switching jobs, getting married and giving birth as changes that could offset the Ben Ming Nian impact. Dragons could also try to attend more happy events to lure positive energy, with Chow pointing to an old Chinese proverb as a source of hope: “One fortunate event would cancel out three disasters.”   Snake All of you Snakes will face several changes within the family area this year, says Chow, but luck will be in your favor at some point. “You will generally enjoy good relationships this year. You will potentially get some admirers and meet some good new friends,” she says. When faced with difficulties, Snakes should remember that challenges can lead to growth and wisdom. But Chow warns that doesn’t mean you can be lazy and wait for luck to come. She encourages people born under the Snake years to put in the work if they want to harvest the rewards. “You’ll have the opportunities – don’t waste the potential,” says geomancy consultant. Hard work will also translate into more income this year. As for romance, Chow says things will be stable but Snakes are encouraged to participate in social events. Horse This year, a special star called Yi Ma Xing will shine over people born in the Year of the Horse. It’s the star of movement, meaning Horses will likely have more chances to hit the road than they did last year. “Whether you’re working or studying, you should travel – near or afar – as much as you can. Travel would bring luck and opportunities for you,” says Chow. If you’re feeling a bit lonely, Chow says all that travel could even lead to romance. Even though Horses don’t clash with Tai Sui this year, the geomancy consultant recommends people born under this zodiac sign visit the temple for some extra blessings as well. Goat People born in the Year of the Goat will need to plan their schedules wisely, otherwise stress and busy schedules will take a toll on their mental and physical health, says Chow. “If you have been doing things the same way the past years, it is time to change and build a new plan,” she says. Though they are in a negative position with Tai Sui, Goats will generally find joy in pleasant relationships with friends and colleagues. It may be the year Goats will have a breakthrough or a promotion at work – money and fame could follow when that happens. If you are looking for love, you may find someone very compatible through your friends this year.   Monkey Monkeys are going to have a relatively stable year. “Maybe you won’t feel like having the opportunity to shine too much but that’s OK,” says Chow. “You just embrace what you have for now and know that better things will come later during the year.” Monkeys will find it easy to make money – and spend it. Hence, Chow advises those under this sign to be diligent about money management this year. As for all your Monkeys in search of love, she says it’s a good year to get serious or find someone who is compatible. Rooster People born in the Year of the Rooster will enjoy a harmonious relationship with Tai Sui this year (He Tai Sui). That generally symbolizes a fortunate year for Roosters in terms of meeting new friends and finding suitable life partners if they don’t already have one, says Chow. Generally, Roosters will enjoy a pleasant, stable year. “It’s better to stay put in the first half of the year, like if you want to change jobs. It’s good to wait till the second half of the year to find good opportunities,” says Chow. It’s a good year to rake in some money as well. Dog People born in the Year of the Dog will be clashing with Tai Sui this year, which means more changes and barriers in life. “It’s a big year for Dogs. You may feel tired both physically and mentally, for you will be going through quite a lot of changes,” says Chow. “It’s better to move instead of staying put, such as changing jobs, moving homes or going traveling. These will help alleviate the negative impact (from the clash with Tai Sui),” says Chow. It’s also a year to practice prudence in life, she adds. That means it’s better to stay low profile and observe things from a distance before making any big decisions. People born in the Year of the Dog may face more arguments in their relationships this year, she notes, but it’s not all bad. “When there’s a negative side, there’s always a positive, too. Challenges will bring growth,” Chow says, reminding Dogs to take a deep breath and remember this as they face any challenges in the coming months A visit to the temple will also help Dogs catch some positive energy. Pig “This year, you may have to work a bit harder and work longer hours than usual. But remember, when there are bigger challenges, your wisdom and growth will come in way faster,” says Chow of people born in the Year of the Pig. But hard work also means more income – Pigs just have to be mindful of not losing their hard-earned money carelessly. Meanwhile, Pigs’ personal relationships will likely be more stable. “It’s a good year to slow down and embrace the person they are with,” says Chow. Looking for a new love interest? Chow urges Pigs to attend more social events organized by friends. Rat “It isn’t the worst year but there are going to be some challenges. The good news is, they are also going to find a lot of guardians who will assist them at their lowest,” says Chow of those born in the Year of the Rat. As a result, Rats should keep their eyes open for people offering support and advice. At work, relationships with bosses and co-workers are generally stable. Rats may even get an opportunity to shine and gain some much-deserved admiration. Rats may have an opportunity to save quite a bit of money this year. Because of this, Chow says it could be a good time to think about opening a new business if that’s one of their goals. “Again, just don’t rush into doing too much at the same time too soon,” says Chow. In terms of romance, she says Rats looking for love should socialize with friends and travel more.   Source: CNN
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Does Japanese long-breathing promote weight loss?
The Japanese long-breathing exercise is being touted for its weight loss benefits. However, is this claim valid? We investigate. On your weight loss journey, you may have come across a lot of quick-fix hacks to lose those extra calories. One such technique that has come into the foray is the Japanese long-breathing exercise, which is being touted for its weight loss benefits. However, is this claim valid? We investigate. Championed by Japanese actor Miki Ryosuke, this technique, initially aimed at alleviating back pain, unexpectedly led to a weight loss of 13 kgs in a matter of weeks for Ryosuke. The underlying principle revolves around the belief that fat, composed of oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen, disintegrates as oxygen reaches the fat cells during deep breathing, effectively aiding weight loss.
Feel the chill: Cold water bath benefits
Showers, whether hot or cold, may offer distinct advantages. While a hot shower may strengthen cardiovascular health and enhance sleep, a cold shower may assist lessen pain, swelling, and inflammation. Here are some possible advantages of taking a cold shower now that winter has officially arrived: Your body releases norepinephrine, which has anti-inflammatory properties, when exposed to cold water, which is why taking a simple cold shower can boost your immune system in multiple ways. According to one study, swimmers in cold water "had an improved adaptation to oxidative stress," while according to another, "cold water swimming can raise the body's tolerance." The simplest method to reap these wonderful benefits is to take a cold shower, which is even easier than swimming in cold water.
Social media addiction: How can we avoid it?
Users are spending more time online. Among children, social media consumption has skyrocketed compared to pre-pandemic levels. In the US, tech giants are on trial for endangering minors with addictive platforms. Oh why not, just one more post. Not that good? Well then how about the next one? That content will surely be more interesting. Anyone who's been on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or TikTok knows the feeling: Before we realize it, "a quick peek" can easily become an hour or two of doom scrolling. Social media is everywhere. We can access it through our phones, on our computers, at work, or during our free time. We use it to chat, to post, to stay up-to-date, to follow the latest gosssip, to hear what others have to say. But social media has its dark sides. The number of people consuming excessive amounts of social media content is rising. Over 6% of Germany's youth, or about 600,000 girls and boys, are addicted to social media and gaming. That's according to a study by German health insurer DAK and the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), published this spring. It found that over two million minors used social media or streaming platforms in ways it labeled, "problematic." Accordingly, the amount of time children and young adults spend in front of a screen has risen sharply compared to pre-pandemic levels, up to about two hours and 45 minutes a day on social media alone. Helpful or harmful? So are social media just another dangerous contraption? "At the very least, their role is ambivalent," said Tobias Dienlin, assistant professor for interactive communication at the University of Vienna in Austria. "There is a lot of trivial content, but some of it can also be beneficial."  The expert added: "You can use social media in many different ways. You can passively consume content, or you can actively engage with social media to communicate and maintain relationships." As long as this happens in moderation, everything is fine, he said. Things only become problematic, he cautioned, when users start excessively frequenting social media sites. To date, there is no precise medical definition of social media addiction. "But just because a diagnosis doesn't exist, doesn't mean the phenomenon doesn't exist," said Dienlin. The media expert explained that excessive social media consumption became an addiction when users weren't able to get around to other important things in their lives, when they had the desire to use social media less but found themselves unable to think about anything else, and when they started neglecting real-life social relationships. Attractive algorithms Most social media platforms exploit peoples' neurological hardwiring by offering a system of short-term rewards. Likes and emojis provide positive reinforcement, and any unpleasant content can easily be swiped away. "Introducing the possibility to scroll endlessly has meant that users never finish browsing. There's always new content to see," Dienlin said. "Of course that's extremely addictive, because it means users have to actively disengage from their screens. When I finish reading a book, then I'm done. All television shows come to an end. But that's not the case online." What's more, many social media platforms run on algorithms designed to tailor the content we see to our personal preferences. This makes it even harder to control how much we consume. Those who struggle in other areas of their lives are particularly vulnerable to media addiction. "People who already have weak impulse control, or who struggle to organize their daily lives, have an even harder time with social media," Dienlin said. Escapism and echo chambers  To people who are lonely, or depressed, consuming excessive amounts of social media can also be a welcome escape from reality. "In these cases, it helps us regulate our mood and exit uncomfortable situations," the expert explained. "If I'm feeling bored, or overwhelmed, or if I'm feeling ashamed and guilty, and then I reach for my phone and open social media, it's all gone. In an instant." On the other hand, excessive social media consumption can also worsen existing psychological conditions, such as depression or eating disorders. This can happen when users seek out certain harmful content, which algorithms then learn to present more frequently in accordance with the users' stated preferences. US class action again big tech In the United States, hundreds of families have now joined a class action lawsuit against four of the world's largest tech firms. They blame Facebook operator Meta, Chinese TikTok operator ByteDance, Google and YouTube operator Alphabet, and Snapchat operator Snap for not only disregarding the risk of children becoming addicted to social media, but also actively promoting it. Several school districts have also filed suit. Among other things, the plaintiffs claim companies have insufficiently enforced parental controls and age-verification systems, and made it unnecessarily difficult to delete social media accounts. It was long unclear if the lawsuit would proceed, as the defendants denied all accusations, brushing them off as unsubstantiated. But in mid-November, a US district court judge rejected the social media giants' bid to throw out the case. But how meaningful might the case be? Dienlin is unsure: "A lawsuit like this attracts a lot of attention. The way I see it, it's not irrelevant to point these things out. But, as is so often the case, there are two sides to the story. If providers want to make their services more attractive, which any profit-oriented business aims to do, then they of course automatically raise the potential risk for addiction. But users can't deny their responsibility. We have to do both: optimize technology, and also train and help users." The EU has meanwhile launched investigations into YouTube and TikTok, too, on suspicion of violations against child protection regulations. Strategies to prevent addiction Above all, the expert recommended users remain vigilant about their own social media habits, as well as those of their children. "It's good to discuss it as a family, and to practice abstinence, without immediately resorting to thinking that all social media is absolute hogwash." He also recommended restricting time spent on social media, and physically putting phones aside occassionally. It's important for users to rediscover alternatives to their smartphones, too. Dienlin suggested physical activity, pursuing a hobby, meeting friends, or volunteering. "It would be wrong to assume that social media networks are to blame for us feeling down. Oftentimes, being glued to one's phone is indicative of a wider problem. But it can cause more problems," he explained. Even just realizing this, he said, could be the first step out of social media addiction.
Journalists' visit at The Korea Times office
A group of journalists participating in an invitation program organized by the Korea Foundation pose during a visit to The Korea Times' office in downtown Seoul, Monday.  From left are The Korea Times President-Publisher Oh Young-jin, RTV CEO Rahman Syed Ashik from Bangladesh), Le Manager Executive Director Sahar Mechri Kharrat from Tunisia, Canal 22 anchor Irma Gabriela Tlaseca Rodriguez from Mexico, Jordan Times Editor-in-Chief Mohammad Ghazal from Jordan, Guardian Media Ltd. Deputy Managing Editor Sampson Nanton from Trinidad and Tobago, The Gleaner reporter Simone Morgan-Lindo from Jamaica, La Provincia Managing Editor Antonio Cacereno from Spain and Miyagi Television Broadcasting President Tadayuki Tamai Japan.
Live parasitic worm plucked from Australian woman's brain
Scientists this week published information on an unprecedented case in Australia, where they found and extracted a live parasitic worm from the brain of a woman in Canberra.  The worm was some 8 centimeters (just over 3 inches) long and is a roundworm most commonly seen in python species, known as Ophidascaris robertsi.  It was found in the brain of a 64-year-old woman after she had complained of a variety of changing symptoms and afflictions over a prolonged period. 'Just get it out of my forceps!' Neurosurgeon Hari Priya Bandi found and removed the parasite with forceps during a biopsy.  "I used tumor-holding forceps and lifted out something that I definitely was not expecting: a linear, squiggling line," Bandi told DW on Tuesday. "And my junior doctor said, 'is that an artery?', because that's what it looked like. And I said, 'it's not an artery, we're nowhere near any artery!' And I noticed it was moving and I went, 'just get it out of my forceps!' So we rapidly put it in a pathology pot, and it was a vigorously wriggling worm." Asked whether it was fair to assume the worm had been moving around inside, Bandi said it was and that their scans demonstrated as much.  The woman's symptoms had started as lung, liver and adominal problems, Bandi said, but evolved towards problems like depression, presumably as the animal's activities kept affecting different parts of the brain.  Her psychiatrist had conducted CT scans in which what was later identified as the worm was first visible, and later MRI scans to prepare for the procedure had then shown how the abnormality was moving.    A known possibility, but an unprecedented find "When you operate on someone's brain and you take a biopsy or something, you never expect to encounter something living," Doctor Sanjaya Senanayake, who co-authored the study with Bandi, told Reuters. "[It] was certainly something we'll never forget."  The paper on the case was published in the Emerging Infectious Diseases journal on Monday.  Bandi and Senanayake speculated that the woman might have been exposed to the parasite when foraging for wild grasses to make a dish similar to spinach, when she might have been exposed to python feces.  The worm was successfully removed last year. The woman, whom Senanayake praised as being "very courageous and patient," returned to normal life after the operation to remove the parasite, but medical professionals have continued to monitor her.  "Obviously, because this was an unusual case at so many levels, we're keeping a close eye on her and keeping in touch," Senanayake said.  Senanayake said the discovery came as a surprise, but that they were aware of the possibility, particularly as human and animal habitats continue to overlap more and more.  "Other snakes around the world carry this parasite, so it is quite likely that other new cases will be documented," he said. "So hopefully, raising awareness of that will help other healthcare workers around the world."
'There is more to life than work'
Life is not just about working. There are many more things to enjoy, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates recently express his thought from his life. At his young age and before becoming a father, he didn't even understand this truth. Last Sunday, Bill Gates said to the Northern Arizona University graduates, "When I was your age, I didn't believe in weekends. I pushed everyone around me to work very long hours." Bill Gates, the billionaire who left Harvard University after just three semesters to launch Microsoft, told graduates, "You are not a slacker if you cut yourself  some slack." In my early days at Microsoft, I didn't even realise the importance of maintaining a life balance.  Mr. Gates would keep a track of which employees left early or stayed late from his office window, which overlooked the parking lot. Bill Gates acknowledged his failure to accept this truth in his early stages of his career.  Bill said, "Don't wait as long as I did to learn this lesson. Take time to nurture your relationships, to celebrate your success, and to recover from your losses. Take a break when you need to. Take it easy on the people around you when they need it, too." He was known for sending critical 'flame mails' to employees in the middle of the night. In 2019, Bill Gates wrote on his blog, "When I was at Microsoft, I was tough on people I worked with. Some of it helped us be successful, but I'm sure some of it was over the top." He also addressed the career choice matter to the graduates and said, "Right now, you guys are too cautious to make a wise decision regarding your career. Now you can consider these decisions. But the reality is not like that. What you are going to do for the next ten years may not be the same for your whole life." Bill reminded graduates about their social responsibilities. "When you are graduating, there is a huge opportunity to serve the society. Every day, new industries and factories are introduced.  You have a lot of chances to work there. Because of the advancement of science and technology, everything is now easier to do than before," he added.
What to do during and after an earthquake
Although earthquake is a calamity like other natural disasters, it’s almost impossible to forecast about it. Within moments it damages everything. It traumatizes people at massive scale. Thus, large number of people and assets are destructed.   In Bangladesh, massive earthquakes haven't occurred so far. And, earthquakes damages are also very low.  Experts and meteorologists are hinting fear of large scale earthquakes in near future. They also indicate being traumatized is solely responsible for earthquake damages. So it is necessary to understand dos and don’ts and awareness to escape earthquake consequences. And government and nongovernment institutions should take action in creating public awareness in this regard.  Basically, earthquake destroys multistorey buildings and thus people fall into the debris.  So, people should understand and be aware of the planned building houses importance.  You have to follow the building codes strictly.  For minimizing earthquake damages, safe gas and electricity lines are obligatory. What to do during an earthquake During an earthquake one should never panic. Keep patience. If you stay outside the home, never enter into it. If you live in a one storey building, try to leave the house immediately.  If you live in a multi storey building, then try to stay under table or desk covering your head with soft pillow or blanket.  Leave the places where glass boxes kept. Avoid using lift. Never try to jump through windows. Keep distance from high hill.  Make sure to stop the gas and electricity lines during earthquake.  If you are in school, take position under the tables protecting your head with bag. If you are in outside, stay open space far from trees, buildings and electricity lines.  If you are in garment factory, hospital, shopping mall or cinema hall, don’t hurry to leave through narrow exits points.  If you succumbed under debris, don’t panic. Try to protect from dust by using your cloths.  Basically several aftershocks followed main quake.  So, try to leave building where you stay within few minutes after first quake felt. If you stay inside any car, don’t hurry to leave or panic.  Everyone should have a battery-powered radio, mineral water, and first aid kits in their homes to escape the deadly consequences of an earthquake.  To keep your phone active after the quake, you should have a power bank and charging alternatives. After the quake, pharmacies and stationeries might be closed.  So, try to stock up on the necessary goods. What to do after an earthquake  If your home is livable, then return home. Check the gas and electricity lines carefully before using them.  Keep updated for the alert from the meteorological department about aftershocks.  Don’t walk on foot or in normal sandals on the debris. If your home is severely damaged, never stay there. Don’t use the candles; use flashlights instead.  Before switching on the electric line, talk to the electricity office or electrician. 
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