As someone who’s wrestled with the pain and monotony of exercise, I’ve discovered a deeper rhythm beneath the surface. It’s not just about building muscle or looking good—it’s about tuning your mind and body like a jazz ensemble. This journey isn’t easy, but in those moments when pain gives way to peace, you realize it’s worth every drop of sweat.

Ever feel like time speeds up as you age? Watching kids grow and experiencing fewer personal changes can lead to a quarter-life or midlife crisis. I’ve found that recognising we only have one life shifts our perspective. Embracing time as our ally and focusing on internal fulfilment rather than external achievements can transform our experience and fill the void left by life’s rush.

Most of my waking time, I’m buried in work, stuck in transactional relationships. Weekends are for hobbies, exploration, relationships, or just catching up on sleep. But there’s a quieter, slower side of life we often miss. It’s about embracing silence and simplicity, finding warmth in solitude, and just breathing without the weight of the world. We need to shut down our senses and simply live, even if just for a moment.

Trauma can make us feel so helpless, like we’re stuck in an endless loop of fear and anxiety. But here’s the thing: our brains aren’t just pattern detectors. We’re complex beings with countless variables affecting our decisions. Life is full of pain, and sometimes, it’s better to accept things as they are. Not every battle needs to be fought. Sometimes, it’s okay to let things be and find peace in acceptance.

In a world where dating apps and social media make casual encounters common, I find myself at odds with this trend. Indian youth are changing, and it’s hard to explain to our parents. While some find happiness in this, I believe in deeper connections. It’s okay to have choices and respect different perspectives, but personally, hookup culture just isn’t for me.