Headspace to Storybird: 5 Tech Tools To Activate Classrooms!

We live in a world where technology is reigning with its tremendous power while traditional methods are fading into the cobwebbed corner of boredom. From educating to entertaining, technology enormously serves us, helps us, and keeps us immersed. So why not introduce educational tech tools to your students and supercharge them with striking skills, burning curiosity, and many more? Headspace We are all worried and stressed about something or other. Emotions often lash down on us like hurricanes, and it’s not always easy to keep them from spilling. Learning to calm emotions is as important as learning other lessons in school. Headspace is such an intriguing tool that will help students meditate and practice mindfulness. Regular meditation and other mindfulness practices will enrich their daily lives, by helping them ease stress, anxiety, and other mental discomforts. Duolingo Who could grab more opportunities than one who speaks more languages? Introduce Duolingo to the students, and tell them to invest 10-30 minutes daily to learn a new language. Duolingo makes it easy for learners to swallow lessons by offering customized assessments. Encourage students to compete and learn more languages with Duolingo. Booklets Here comes the educational tool packed with fun. Who doesn’t like immersing themselves in games? Booklets let you customize according to your educational topic. Students can play together, have fun while competing to score the best. Game-based tools like booklets not only engage the students but also make them curious to explore and learn more. If students are curious, teaching and learning become more fun. Remind Remind lets you update or remind the class about upcoming tests and many more. With Remind, it gets easier to reach out to parents when it’s necessary. This app ensures privacy without revealing one’s personal contact. Apart from text messages, photos can also be attached. Storybird If you want to nurture creative writing skills in students, no platform can help you more than Storybird. Storybird is a platform that lets students craft their own stories as well as read other wonderfully woven stories written and shared by others. This platform will enhance students’ vocabularies and encourage them to immerse in the realms of their imagination.

Fathima Sanna

Education

Homeschooling: Best Online Resources For Parents To Enrich Your Children’s Education

Are you afraid of your child being exposed to the negative environment of school where bullying, competition, and peer pressure are something almost inevitable? Or are you someone who constantly relocates as a part of your job? If anything is scorching your head and you’re thinking of schooling your child within the comfort of your lovely home, here’s the list of the best online resources to enhance the experience of homeschooling. Khan Academy Khan Academy is a reputed resource that you can freely rely on to nurture your kid’s education. From Maths to art, this educational site will help your child with all subjects delivered through comprehensive YouTube videos. If you’re looking for free and qualified educational content, why not hustle to create an account on Khan Academy? Funbrain Are you looking for a fun-filled online resource to make your kids enjoy learning? If yes, a fun brain is chock-a-block with entertaining games, books, videos, and even comics. Your kids will learn important lessons while having fun. These interactive games will enhance problem-solving skills, and reading skills, improve vocabulary, and many more within the comfort of your house. Newsela Newsela uniquely nurtures your kids with articles. These articles are designed to enhance one’s reading while updating your kids with current events. Apart from reading, there are comprehensive tests to further polish the skills. Though most articles are available for free, there are articles accessible to only paid users. Easy Peasy All-In-One School Here comes an easy peasy online resource crafted by a homeschooling parent named Lee Giles. This educational resource offers a full curriculum from preschool to grade 12. If you’re a Christian who values education with Bible teachings, Easy Peasy will help you lead your kids on the right path. You can either print out the chapters or buy those textbooks at a cheap rate to enrich the learning experience of homeschooling. Storyline Who doesn’t like to listen to wonderful stories narrated in a captivating way? Storyline is for kids who love bedtime stories. With stories wonderfully read by famous people, this educational resource will help your kids with polishing language skills. Listening skills in a second language is something hard to acquire, but with the storyline, it gets easier to nurture it.

Nikhat Parveen

Design Lifestyle

Marayoor’s Misty Musings: Escaping to Kerala’s Emerald Tea Estates

A Journey Through Nature’s Embrace A place where the mist gently caresses lush green hills, where the aroma of freshly plucked tea leaves mingles with the crisp mountain air, and where tranquility reigns supreme. Welcome to Marayoor, a hidden gem nestled in the scenic hills of Kerala, India. This captivating destination promises to transport you into a world of serene beauty, where every breath rejuvenates your senses and every moment is etched with the magic of nature. So, let’s embark on a journey through this enchanting landscape, where every turn unveils a new facet of its emerald allure. Tea Plantation Retreats: Marayoor’s Verdant Havens Kanan Devan Hills Plantations You know what? The Kanan Devan Hills Plantations are an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the true essence of Marayoor’s tea estates. These sprawling plantations blanketed in verdant shades of green, offer a range of cozy accommodations nestled amidst the undulating hills and tea bushes. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustling of leaves and the melodious calls of birds, as you sip on a freshly brewed cup of Marayoor’s finest. Tea Factory Tours Get ready to be shocked! Did you know that Marayoor is home to one of the world’s highest tea factories? That’s right! The Kanan Devan Hills Tea Factory, perched at an altitude of over 6,000 feet, offers fascinating tours that take you through the entire process of tea production, from plucking to packaging. Not only that, but you can also witness the skilled tea tasters in action, evaluating the aroma and flavor profiles of each batch. Nature’s Playground: Marayoor’s Outdoor Adventures Trekking and Nature Trails Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking trekking and nature trails that wind through Marayoor’s verdant landscapes. Imagine embarking on a hike through lush forests, crossing gurgling streams, and reaching stunning viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the tea estates and the surrounding hills. It’s an adventure that will leave you rejuvenated and reconnected with the great outdoors. Sandalwood Forest You won’t believe this, but tucked away amidst Marayoor’s tea estates lies a hidden gem – the Sandalwood Forest. This unique reserve is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including precious sandalwood trees. Imagine strolling through the fragrant trails, breathing in the earthy scents, and spotting the vibrant birdlife that calls this forest home. Cultural Immersion: Marayoor’s Warm Hospitality Homestays and Local Cuisine Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Marayoor by staying in traditional homestays and savoring the local cuisine. Imagine being welcomed into the homes of friendly locals, learning about their customs and way of life, and indulging in delectable dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, cooked with age-old techniques passed down through generations. Embracing Marayoor’s Misty Charm Marayoor is a destination that captivates the senses and soothes the soul, offering a unique blend of tea plantation retreats, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage. By immersing yourself in this hidden gem of Kerala, you’ll not only uncover its treasures but also gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and serenity that nature has to offer. So, pack your sense of wonder, lace up your hiking boots, and embark on a journey that will leave you mesmerized and transformed by the misty musings of Marayoor.

Aswathy

Design Lifestyle

Eco Chic Living: Way Of Sustainable and Creative Living In Mud Houses

A home that emanates the smell of earth, where the walls radiate natural warmth and coolness, and every corner whispers the tales of traditional craftsmanship—this is the essence of a mud house. Each mud house is a space for nature’s abundant offerings, the artisan’s ingenuity, and meticulous craftsmanship. They are not mere structures but expressions of our deep-rooted connection to the earth. These affordable and accessible structures blend practicality with artistic heritage, uniting us in our commitment to sustainable living and our environment. Mud houses, crafted from earth, straw, water, and other natural materials, offer more than a place to live. They provide natural insulation, creating cosy heavens that offer comfort in all weather conditions. Expressions Of Creativity in Designing Delving into the artistic expressions found in mud house design is a fascinating journey. It unveils a beautiful narrative woven with culture, art, and architecture threads, each representing a unique tradition and a distinct community. Primitive technologies like carving and relief work are incorporated into the building process of mud huts in specific cultures and communities. Images and intricate embossed works depict daily lives, mythologies, and religious symbols while adding aesthetic appeal to the structure. Creating patterns and panels of various shapes and sizes often gives the mud houses a virtual appeal. Adding Natural Hues Natural and local resources, like minerals and natural pigments from plants, soils, etc., are generally used to paint the mud walls to give a different visual effect. The choice of colours also depends on some traditional beliefs. In some African cultures, white symbolizes purity and protection. Mud houses also differ in shape from traditional concrete houses. They often feature sculptural elements like niches, alcoves, and decorative columns, which are both functional and artistic, including the roof and ceiling. Here are famous examples of unique mud house designs. Gurunshi Earth Houses On the borders of Northern Ghana, in a village called Tiebele, unique mud houses are a different view. These mud houses of the Kassena tribe have a unique aesthetic appeal characterized by Gurunshi-decorated architecture. They use straws, mud, cow dung, etc., for the houses, which are built in specific geometric shapes. The shapes of these houses are significant, whereas the square houses are for married couples and the rectangular houses are for bachelors. Mud Houses Of Himachal Pradesh Traditional mud houses resurge in Himachal Pradesh, India when concrete homes are favored. These mud structures built long ago in Himalayan valleys remain strong, keeping the atmosphere cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Painted Mud Homes Of Ndebele The Ndebele Nation is an ethnic group in Zimbabwe known for their incredible talent and creativity. Through their paintings, the women of this group create beautiful studio mud houses. They paint patterns that symbolize certain qualities, giving each home a unique beauty. These are just a few examples of mud huts. If we explore more, we can find more one-of-a-kind designs that reflect tradition, culture, and ways of human livelihood.

Nikhat Parveen

Culture and Heritage

Mystic Monasteries: Seeking Solace in India’s Ancient Buddhist Sanctuaries

Portals to Enlightenment Do you know that India is home to some of the most ancient and revered Buddhist monasteries in the world? These sacred sanctuaries, nestled amidst towering mountains and serene landscapes, have been beacons of spiritual enlightenment for centuries. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through these mystic monasteries, where ancient wisdom and architectural grandeur converge to create an aura of tranquility and introspection. Tawang Monastery – A Himalayan Jewel Tucked away in the remote and breathtaking landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, the Tawang Monastery stands as a shining jewel of Buddhist spirituality. As you approach this majestic complex, you’ll be awestruck by the sight of its imposing façade, adorned with vibrant frescoes and intricate carvings that depict the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. But wait, there’s more! You’ll be fascinated to learn that this sacred sanctuary houses a priceless collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures and artifacts, each one a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Rumtek Monastery – A Tibetan Treasure Venture into the picturesque valleys of Sikkim, where the Rumtek Monastery awaits to unveil its Tibetan Buddhist treasures. Prepare to be mesmerized by the ornate architecture, featuring intricate wood carvings, colorful murals, and towering stupas that seem to reach for the heavens. As you wander through the tranquil courtyards and listen to the melodic chants of the resident monks, you’ll be transported to a realm of serenity and spiritual awakening. Not only is this monastery a hub of Buddhist learning, but it also serves as a vibrant cultural center, hosting captivating festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Namdroling Monastery – A Nyingma Sanctuary Nestled in the verdant hills of South India, the Namdroling Monastery stands as a testament to the rich traditions of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Prepare to be captivated by the intricate architecture, featuring ornate golden roofs, towering stupas, and meticulously crafted statues that radiate an aura of divine serenity. As you explore this sacred sanctuary, you’ll be fascinated by the intricate rituals and ceremonies that have been meticulously preserved, offering a rare glimpse into the spiritual practices of this ancient Buddhist tradition. Drepung Monastery – A Scholastic Haven Journey to the outskirts of Leh, where the majestic Drepung Monastery stands as a beacon of Buddhist scholasticism. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale of this monastic complex, which once housed over 10,000 monks dedicated to the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and philosophical contemplation. As you wander through the labyrinth of prayer halls, libraries, and dormitories, you’ll be transported back in time, imagining the vibrant intellectual discourse that once echoed through these ancient corridors. The Rhythms of Monastic Life Not only do these ancient monasteries offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Buddhist architecture and spirituality, but they also provide a rare opportunity to experience the rhythms of monastic life. Prepare to be captivated by the daily rituals and practices that have been carefully preserved for generations, from the mesmerizing chanting of sacred mantras to the intricate sand mandala ceremonies that symbolize the impermanence of existence. Embracing the Mystic Spirit As you bid farewell to these mystic monasteries, remember that they are not just architectural wonders or spiritual sanctuaries; they are living embodiments of profound wisdom and ancient traditions that have stood the test of time. Embrace the mystic spirit that permeates these sacred spaces, and carry with you the memories of a journey that has undoubtedly enriched your soul and broadened your understanding of the world’s spiritual tapestry.

Nikhat Parveen

Culture and Heritage

Nomadic Narratives: Unraveling the Wandering Tapestry of India’s Nomadic Communities

The Call of the Endless Trail Do you know that India is home to a vibrant tapestry of nomadic communities, each with its own unique traditions and ways of life? These wandering tribes have mastered the art of embracing the freedom of the open road, carrying their homes and cultures on their backs as they traverse the vast landscapes of our nation. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through the nomadic narratives of India, where every step unveils a captivating story of resilience, adaptation, and a deep connection with nature. The Rebaris – Guardians of the Desert Imagine traversing the vast, arid expanse of the Thar Desert, where the Rebari tribe has carved out a nomadic existence for centuries. You’ll be awestruck by the intricate embroidery adorning their vibrant attire, each stitch telling a tale of their rich cultural heritage. But wait, there’s more! You’ll be fascinated to learn that these nomads are not just skilled weavers but also expert camel breeders, possessing an intimate knowledge of these magnificent “ships of the desert” that have been their companions on the endless trails. The Gaddis – Shepherds of the Himalayas Venture into the towering Himalayan ranges, where the Gaddi tribe has mastered the art of transhumance – the seasonal migration of livestock between mountain pastures. Prepare to be mesmerized by the intricate woodcarvings that adorn their portable homes, each one a testament to their artistry and connection to the natural world. Not only do these nomads possess an intimate understanding of the rugged landscapes they traverse, but they also play a vital role in preserving the delicate ecological balance of the Himalayan regions. The Banjaras – Traders on the Move Journey through the dusty trails of India’s heartland, where the Banjara tribe has been weaving their nomadic tapestry for centuries. You’ll be captivated by the vibrant colors and intricate designs of their distinctive attire, each piece a reflection of their rich cultural identity. But wait, there’s more! You’ll be amazed to learn that these wandering traders were once the lifeline of India’s commercial network, transporting goods across vast distances and facilitating cultural exchange between distant communities. The Bakarwals – Nomads of the Pastures Immerse yourself in the pastoral landscapes of Kashmir, where the Bakarwal tribe has mastered the art of seasonal migrations in search of lush grazing grounds. Prepare to be enchanted by the rhythmic jingles of their flocks and the melodic tunes they sing to soothe their animals. Not only do these nomads possess a deep reverence for nature, but they also play a crucial role in preserving the region’s biodiversity by ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources. Embracing the Nomadic Spirit As you bid farewell to these captivating nomadic narratives, remember that these communities are not just wanderers; they are the embodiment of a way of life that has stood the test of time. Embrace the nomadic spirit that permeates their existence, a spirit that values freedom, resilience, and a deep connection with the natural world. Carry with you the memories of these extraordinary journeys, and let them inspire you to embrace the wonders that lie beyond the beaten path. Preserving the Nomadic Tapestry In an ever-changing world, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the rich tapestry of India’s nomadic communities is preserved for generations to come. By celebrating their unique traditions, respecting their ways of life, and promoting sustainable practices, we can ensure that the nomadic narratives continue to weave their magic across the vast landscapes of our incredible nation.

Fathima Sanna

Entertainment

Drive in Saturday to Cloudbusting: 6 Best Uniquely Crafted Songs Inspired by Science!

Are you someone who exuberantly chases scientific theories and facts? Is someone bored of songs woven with unrealistic pieces of words stolen from fantasy worlds? If yes, we’ve collected some spectacularly unique songs inspired by science, for you to sway your head to vibe and think about. Drive on Saturday (1973) Drive in Saturday is a uniquely striking song by David Bowie, set in a futuristic world after an apocalypse where humans no longer remember how to do sex, and have to rely on old movies of the 1960s and 70s to learn about it. Quantum Theory (2006) Quantum Theory by Jarvis Cocker is a comforting song about the parallel universe. A world where everything is perfectly fine. Parallel universe has been taken as a thought to console oneself from the excruciating pain of our reality on earth. In Quantum Theory, Jarvis says, “Somewhere everyone’s happy. Somewhere fishes do not have bones.” Reflektor (2013) Reflektor is a song that echoes the troubles lashed down at us by technological progress. Arcade Fire wanted to stress the issues of alienation sprouted by the internet age. The lyrics are deeply moving. “We are so connected, but are we even friends?” These lines reflect the closed box where we live with haunting shadows of loneliness. Jupiter Crash (1996) Here comes a uniquely thrilling song that talks about the Shoemaker-Levy 9 comet’s crash on Jupiter. In 1994, the world observed the event with startling expressions. You’ll also love the stringing of guitar for its enrapturing beat like the thrashing of waves on the shore. Na Cl (1978) Na Cl by Kate and Anna McGarrigle, is an exceptional song that talks about the romantic relationship between chlorine and sodium atoms. The song will surely make you think and chortle if you’re a science enthusiast. By the way, this couple marries to emerge as sodium chloride. Cloudbusting (1985) Kate Bush’s Cloudbusting is inspired by Peter Reich’s memoir titled “A Book Of Dreams“. Thus, the song revolves around Wilhelm Reich and his son Peter, singing from Peter’s viewpoint. The song talks about the good old times Peter had with his father in their family farm where they spent time cloudbusting.

Ishita

Trends

Top Free AI Image Generators 2024 To Boost 10X Productivity!

Top free AI image generators in 2024 offer exceptional capabilities. These are powerful tools that use artificial intelligence to generate unique images, from whipping up a pretty drawing to letting you express your creativity without breaking the bank! They can even create something as unique as the Mona Lisa eating cheese! Intrigued? Let’s learn more about them. 1. DALL-E 2 (by OpenAI) DALL-E is the OG, the one that started it all. It stands out with its ability to create the most photorealistic art pieces. This tool doesn’t just work with photorealism; it can do whatever you throw at it! The limit is your imagination, and perhaps the long wait time between each generation. But hey, it’s worth it for the amazing results it spits out. 2. Midjourney Midjourney took what DALL-E does and improved it, making a flexible image generation program mainly used in concept art. Its open community makes it easy for anyone new to AI image generation to learn it. 3. Stable Diffusion Stable Diffusion is an open-source model in which developers constantly make cool stuff, like new features and extensions that improve AI. It’s a top choice for users who want precise control over image generation and tech-savvy individuals working on niche projects. While setting it up can be a hassle, part of it is setting up the mods and extensions made by the community. The flexibility is always worth it. 4. NightCafe Creator NightCafe Creator is an image generator that creates beautiful visuals with a handful of artistic styles right at your fingertips. Its user-friendly interface offers many opportunities to experiment and quickly generate awe-inspiring visuals with different aesthetics. The free tier may have limitations, but it’s still pretty flexible. 5. Craiyon (Formerly DALL-E Mini) Craiyon is entirely free and surprisingly fast, making it perfect for brainstorming, creating quick visual concepts, and having a bit of fun! Remember that image quality often won’t reach the heights of other AI generators on this list. Tips for Success The Power of Top Free AI Image Generators In 2024, AI image generators continue to evolve, offering incredible creative potential for free. These tools help you: Get Started with Top Free AI Image Generators! Start experimenting with these top free AI image generators to revolutionize your creative projects. The possibilities are truly limitless!

Ishita

Trends

Nowstalgia: Gen Z’s Obsession with Y2K Fashion, Music, & Tech

Don’t you just miss the day of baggy jeans, fluffy blonde frosted hair, nu-metal music videos on TV, and those painful keypad phones? What if we told you Gen Z does too? We know what you’re thinking – Gen Z out of everyone? Missing an era they’ve barely experienced? This fascination of Y2K in today’s kids is an intriguing phenomenon. But why? Let’s hop onto “Nowstalgia” train to figure out this odd surge of obsession. What is Nowstalgia? Nowstalgia is a portmanteau of “Now” and “Nostalgia.” It describes the sentimental craving of the recent past, from the ’90s to the Early 2010s, when Linkin Park’s debut album was “It,” everyone wore weird outfits consisting of baggy jeans and oversized shirts. With its unique blend of familiarity, this era continues to have a significant influence today. Why Y2K, Why Now? The Allure of Y2K Nowstalgia: More Than a Trend? Nowstalgia is more than just a passing fad. It reflects how Gen Z interacts with the past, reshaping it and making it their own. This generation is rewriting the rules of nostalgia, blurring the lines between past and present. Despite not experiencing much of the ’90s, Gen Z often seems to know more about it than those who lived through it. Gen Z’s development is fascinating and warrants further study.

Aswathy

Fashion

Sabyasachi’s Floral-Themed Designer Saree Grabbed Fashion Enthusiasts’s Attention!

The Met Gala, also known as ‘fashion’s biggest night out ‘, is one of the most anticipated fashion events in the world, hosting celebrities and fashion enthusiasts. It became a treat for the eyes of the guests as many celebrities, young designers, and fashion enthusiasts showcased their way of styling. This annual fashion show, held on the first Monday of May, raises funds for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This is known as the world’s most prestigious and glamorous fashion event, where the most influential figures in the fashion industry gather to celebrate and showcase their creativity. The wearer’s Indian saree styling for the occasion immediately captivated the attention of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. This year’s gala theme, ‘The Garden Of Time,’ provided a stunning backdrop for this mint green Sabyasachi saree, a global representation of Indian culture. The fashion world was abuzz with admiration for this elegant and culturally significant look. The exquisite floral saree, a creation of Sabyasachi Mukherjee, was a perfect embodiment of this year’s dress code, ‘The Garden Of Time’. Sabyasachi’s exquisite designer saree showcased Indian culture on a global stage through her attire, which was a significant highlight of the event. The saree’s beauty sparked a wave of admiration and discussion in the online community, with many praising its unique design and cultural representation. As one post exclaimed, ‘Met Gala 2024 showcased the Sabyasachi’s designer saree, a global representation of the wearer’s culture.’ This celebration of the new floral look resonated with the online community, further underscoring the importance of cultural representation in fashion. The customized saree beautifully showcased this year’s theme, “Sleeping Beauty: Reawakening Fashion.” In an interview with Vogue, it is mentioned, “The sari’s design, with its translucent, glass-like appearance, is not just a nod to the ethereal quality of the garden in Ballard’s story but also a tribute to the exquisite, enduring craft of sari-making.” According to reports, this saree was a true labour of love. It was meticulously crafted by a team of 163 people, including craftsmen, dyers, embroiderers, and weavers, who dedicated over 1965 hours to its creation. Each thread and stitch was not just a part of the saree but a testament to their exceptional skill and dedication, inspiring the fashion world with their craftsmanship. ‘As I wear this outfit, I feel incredibly grateful to embody this exquisite creation, a testament to boundless love and painstaking effort.’ Alia Bhatt wrote on her Instagram page, expressing her deep appreciation to her collaborators and making them feel valued for their contribution.

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