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Finding Meaning in COVID-19: Different Perspectives

Areej C
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Finding Meaning in COVID-19: Different Perspectives

 

When COVID-19 forced the world into lockdown, most people focused on the negative impacts like stress, isolation, and uncertainty. This article in no way is meant to undermine such feelings, or disregard the awful loss of life during this time. However, looking at it from different perspectives shows that the experience was not the same for everyone, highlighting the ambiguity and sheer diversity within the human experience. Some people were able to find positive change, while others struggled more, and this can be understood by looking at how society and individuals responded.

From one perspective, society works as a system where different parts support each other. During the pandemic, institutions like healthcare, government, families, and workplaces all had to adjust. Lockdowns were used as a way to protect people and keep things stable. Even though the main goal was to reduce the spread of the virus, there were also some unexpected positive outcomes. Many people became more appreciative of their daily lives, had more time for activities they enjoy, and spent more time outside. With normal routines disrupted, people created new ones that improved their sleep, physical activity, and overall well-being. This shows that when routines are broken, people have the ability to adapt, creating new ways of living that have the potential to improve their quality of life.

At the same time, not everyone experienced these positive changes. Different groups of people were affected in different ways. Some people had this time and resources to improve their lives, while others faced isolation, poor health, and or financial stress. Older individuals living alone often had a harder time during lockdown, while younger people, employed individuals, and those in stable relationships were more likely to experience positive changes. Highlighting the unequal effects of the pandemic. People with more support and stability were better able to take advantage of the situation, while others struggled just to get through it.

Another important perspective is how individuals created meaning during lockdown. When everyday routines disappeared, people started to see normal activities differently. Things like cooking, walking, or spending time outside became ways to feel in control and stay balanced. Even going to public places later on became a symbol of this freedom. By giving new meaning to these simple actions, people were able to stay more positive and cope with the situation.

COVID-19 affected people in very different ways. Some found growth and positive change, while others faced major challenges. These different experiences show that people respond to situations based on their environment, resources, and mindset.

Best Life Advice Quotes to Remember

Daniella
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Best Life Advice Quotes to Remember

 

Sometimes the simplest advice is the most powerful. A short quote can stick in your mind and guide your decisions when things get confusing or overwhelming. Here are some great life advice quotes to remember 🙂

 

“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” – Albert Einstein

Even in hard situations, there’s always something to gain or learn. This mindset can help you stay positive and look for growth, instead of giving up.

 

“Do. Or do not. There is no try.” – Yoda, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back 

Commitment. If you only ‘try,’ you leave room to quit; but commitment gives a better chance of success.

 

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

Things often feel overwhelming at first, but once you push through, they become achievable. It’s a reminder not to judge too quickly. 

 

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky

Opportunities only matter if you act on them. Taking risks is necessary if you want results.

 

“Not all those who wander are lost.” – The Lord of the Rings (J.R.R. Tolkien)

Feeling unsure or taking a different path doesn’t mean you’re failing. It’s just a part of figuring things out.

 

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” – Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (J.K. Rowling)

Even in difficult moments, small shifts in perspective can make a big difference.

 

“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” – Henry Ford

Mindset can shape everything. Believing in yourself is often the first step to success.

 

“Fear is the mind-killer.” – Dune (Frank Herbert)

Fear can stop you from thinking clearly or taking action. Learning to manage it is a big key to growth.

 

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill

Both success and failure are temporary. What really matters is persistence.

 

Good advice can come from almost anywhere: history, fiction, or personal experience. What makes it powerful is how easily it sticks in your mind and influences your actions. Even one small reminder can make a big difference over time.

 

Sources:

Do We Inherit Memories? A 10 Year Old’s Breakthrough in Science

Xinlei L
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Do We Inherit Memories? A 10 Year Old’s Breakthrough in Science

 

Is it possible for us to be born with a predetermined memory engrained in our minds? Can we inherit recollections our parents experienced before they had us, some sixth sense that transcends beyond words? These are the questions that 10 year old Jo Nagai’s audience pondered in awe as they listened attentively to a tiny elementary school student presenting his science project about butterflies.

 

Curiosity Educates the Cat 

Jo has always been fascinated by insects, his favourite by far being the swallowtail butterfly. Instead of being a short lived admirer like most of his peers, he would document their life cycle and strange behaviours often overlooked. He would dedicate entire school projects into researching butterflies; whether it was a question of what they would do if stuck in their own chrysalis or exploring obscure caterpillar species. By the second grade, Jo had accumulated hundreds of pages of notes and two awards for his research and dedication. 

Yellow Swallowtail butterfly
Photo by Alan Emery on Unsplash

 

As Jo spent more time researching and looking after his butterflies, he began to notice something strange. Even when trying to free his catered insect children into the wild, they would fly back to him. This curious circumstance brewed up a thought inside the young Japanese child: Is it possible that butterflies retain their memories even after metamorphosis?

 

Skill Based Matchmaking

Coincidentally, Martha Weiss was a scientist that had answered this exact same question, but instead of butterflies, she tested moths. Her results demonstrated how moths indeed remembered their caterpillar lives before sprouting wings. This finding was considered highly controversial, as past literature had continued to insist that insects undergo a complete brain reset after metamorphosis. Obviously, this sparked Jo’s interest. Could his butterflies fly under the same umbrella? This excitement resulted in the 4 page long letter Martha received in her mailbox during spring 2022. 

 

Despite Martha’s initial skepticism, the two eventually started working side by side as transnational scientist PenPal hybrids bound together for their love of insects. They regularly exchanged ideas on how Jo could recreate a house-material friendly setup and how to optimize the methodology, using Martha’s experiment as a baseline. By fall 2022, Jo sent Martha back a letter announcing his study was finished, tied up with a whopping 33 pages of how and what. 

 

Inside the 33 Pages 

The question was simple: If a caterpillar associates something unpleasant with a smell, would it still find the same smell unpleasant after it becomes a butterfly?

 

A group of butterflies received a mild electric shock every time they smelled lavender oil (the experimental group), while another group did not receive any shocks (the control group.)

After metamorphizing, the two groups were placed into a Y shaped tube maze. One arm served as the butterfly’s entrance, and the two other arms offered sugar water. One of them contained a cotton pad with a lavender odor.

Butterfly experiment diagram
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhESxrqPjfU

 

Jo first tested the control group. The untraumatized butterflies split between the lavender and no lavender arm evenly. Hypothetically, if the experimental shocked group had erased their caterpillar memories after metamorphosis, the results would parallel the control group. 

 

However, Jo’s findings for the experimental group was surprising. 7 out of 10 butterflies avoided the arm with the lavender fragrance, a statistically significant finding. 

 

Instead of ending it off right there, Jo decided to continue his research further. After breeding his butterflies, he noticed that the same ratio of lavender avoiding butterflies still appeared compared to the experimental group; despite receiving zero training. 

 

Jo decided to breed his butterflies the third time. Low and behold, even the grandchild generation displayed parallel tendencies to their lavender-hating grandparents, Thus, with all due evidence, the conclusion was made that memories indeed persisted through one singular generation. 

 

“I thought it was amazing that memories can be inherited, because they’re so small. And I thought the caterpillars are so cute when they’re young and they’re so cute even when they become adults. So when I found out these memories can be inherited, I fell in love with them even more.” – Jo Nagai

 

Sources

1, 2 (Martha’s study)

 

Pictures

1, 2

 

 

Why Growing Up Takes so Long : Inside the Developing Brain

Nelo Anne
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Why Growing Up Takes so Long : Inside the Developing Brain

 

We’ve all had someone tell us our brains aren’t fully developed until age 25… but have you ever wondered why the process is so long and grueling? What about why 25 is the chosen age- or if this “fact” is even correct? The truth is, humans are remarkable in our mental complexity, but adolescence and the transition to adulthood can be difficult, especially when our brains seem to be throwing a tantrum in the supermarket while we’re just trying to live our lives.

What?

Human brains take muc374h longer to “grow up” than those of any other known species due to their complexity, our reliance on learning, and the evolutionary advantages this gives us. One part of the brain can be blamed for this slower pace: the prefrontal cortex, the forward-most section of the frontal lobe. This area is the last to develop, often still maturing well into adulthood.

The frontal lobe is responsible for a lot of important functions, including decision-making, impulse control, planning, critical thinking, judgment, self-control, voluntary movement, problem-solving, social interaction, attention, speaking, learning, reasoning, and creativity.

Basically, anything you do with conscious action is supported by this part of the brain. The prefrontal cortex handles the most complicated parts of these abilities, while more basic regions- like those controlling movement- develop earlier. More advanced regions that deal with emotional regulation and social behavior come later, which means the most complex things your brain can do take the longest to fully develop.

The prefrontal cortex is mainly made up of two things: neurons (cells that send and receive signals) and glial cells (basically the neuron support team- they provide nutrients and clear waste).

Why?

As humans, we rely heavily on learning rather than instinct, unlike many other species. This means that during brain development- and well beyond- we depend on other people for social cues and reasoning.

Slower development also allows for more neuroplasticity, meaning that when you’re younger, your brain is more flexible. It’s easier to adapt to different environments and to learn new skills, languages, and cultures.

Think of childhood and adolescence as a training period for your brain- it’s setting you up for the future while you’re still figuring out who you are. In a way, this slower development is evolution favoring intelligence and adaptability.

How?

Between birth and early adulthood, the brain goes through a lot of changes. The frontal lobe grows and reorganizes as connections between cells increase. The brain also changes in its balance of gray and white matter.

Gray matter processes information and contains neuron cell bodies (used for thinking and memory), while white matter acts more like communication cables, allowing signals to travel efficiently. As you get older, more white matter forms, helping different parts of your brain communicate better.

This is why younger people are often more influenced by reward and social acceptance, while older people are generally better at thinking things through logically.

Different types of intelligence also peak at different times. Fluid intelligence- like pattern recognition, abstract reasoning, and multitasking- tends to peak in the late teens to early twenties. Crystallised intelligence- like vocabulary and knowledge- peaks later, often around middle age.

During adolescence, the brain goes through a process called pruning, where excess gray matter is reduced to make room for stronger white matter connections. This helps the brain work more efficiently.

At the same time, processes like segregation (forming thoughts) and integration (connecting them) become more complex, allowing for more advanced thinking. Later on, the brain starts reinforcing the most-used pathways to make them more stable.

When?

The idea that your brain is still developing can actually be reassuring when you make mistakes or feel unsure- it’s a reminder that you’re still growing. But the idea that everything is complete at 25 is a big oversimplification.

The age 25 came from earlier research that didn’t fully track development past young adulthood. Newer studies suggest brain development continues into the 30’s and sometimes even longer.

What I’ve been calling “brain adolescence” is really the period from around age 9 into the early 30’s. Your teens and 20’s are mostly about building connections, while your 30’s are more about stabilising and maintaining them.

This is one of the best times for growth and adaptability, but it’s important to remember that development never really stops- you keep learning and changing your whole life.

Caring for Your Developing Brain

Many conditions affect the frontal lobe, including Alzheimer’s disease, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, brain injuries, infections, and mental health conditions. Some of these are just differences in how brains work, while others are more serious.

So how do you take care of something as complex as your brain?

The good news is, you’re probably already doing some of it. Eating a balanced diet supports your circulatory system so nutrients can reach your brain. Staying active helps overall health and supports brain function.

Safety matters too. The frontal lobe sits right behind your forehead, which makes it vulnerable to injury. Things like seat belts and helmets can make a big difference.

Activities that challenge your brain- like learning languages, playing chess, or problem-solving- can strengthen connections and support long-term brain health.

Finally, because the brain is more plastic during development, substances like alcohol, caffeine, and drugs can have stronger effects. For example, alcohol can interfere with the maturation of the prefrontal cortex and damage the hippocampus (which is responsible for memory and spatial awareness). During your brain’s youth, it’s best to avoid these substances.

So…

At the end of the day, your brain is unique, and it’s meant to take its time. If things like emotional regulation or decision-making don’t feel fully there yet, that’s part of the process.

Even people who seem like they have everything figured out are still learning. The best thing you can do is take care of your brain, build good habits, and treat your mind with a bit of patience.

Sources: 1 2 3 4

The Whale Alphabet: AI’s Role in Decoding Animal Languages

Anie U
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The Whale Alphabet: AI’s Role in Decoding Animal Languages

 

For decades, we’ve dreamed of talking with animals. From Dr. Dolittle to science fiction, the idea has captured our imagination. Now, off the coast of Dominica, that dream is edging closer. Scientists have discovered that sperm whales communicate using a complex “phonetic alphabet”, a “whale alphabet” of sorts, and now, artificial intelligence is helping us crack the code.

A Click Language with Hidden Depths

Sperm whales are highly social creatures. They live in tight‑knit family units, raise calves together, and make group decisions. For years, researchers knew they communicated with short bursts of clicks called codas, identifying about 21 distinct types in the Caribbean. But whale society is too rich for only 21 “words.” Something must have been missing.

In 2024, a team from Project CETI and MIT analyzed nearly 9,000 codas recorded over more than a decade. They identified a surprising discovery, whereby whales don’t just repeat fixed patterns. Instead, they combine smaller features, such as a human alphabet, to create a vast range of possible vocalizations.

A Phonetic Alphabet for Whales

The researchers uncovered four key building blocks that work together:

  • Rhythm – the overall click pattern, independent of speed.

  • Tempo – how fast the pattern is, falling into five distinct categories.

  • Rubato – smooth speed‑ups or slow‑downs that whales mirror during conversation, almost like a musical duet.

  • Ornamentation – extra clicks that act like punctuation, often appearing when a conversation is about to shift from one whale to another.

Through the mix of these elements, including 18 rhythms, 5 tempos, optional rubato, and optional ornamentation, whales can generate hundreds of distinct codas. This initially perceived limited vocabulary is actually a flexible combinatorial system, capable of carrying far more information than previously thought.

How AI Helped Crack the Code

Machine learning was the primary driver of this discovery. AI sifted through thousands of hours of recordings, spotting subtle patterns human ears might miss, such as how whales match each other’s rubato across conversational turns. The algorithms helped cluster codas into rhythm families, revealing the hidden, underlying structure beneath the clicks.

Scientists then validated the AI’s findings against real whale behavior, ensuring the patterns were meaningful. This formed the grounds for a powerful partnership: AI-driven heavy lifting and meaningful human context. As Project CETI founder David Gruber told ABC News, the goal isn’t just limited to whales, but learning to understand non‑human intelligence on Earth, an understanding that may one day help us recognize it elsewhere.

Why This Matters to Us

This discovery changes how we see animals. Intelligence isn’t a ladder with humans at the top. Whales evolved a rich communication system built from clicks, different from ours, but no less sophisticated.

It also matters for conservation. If we understand whale culture through their clans, traditions, and social bonds, we can protect them more thoughtfully. Currently, conservation focuses on numbers. But understanding their social world could lead to deeper, more respectful protection.

And it’s a proving ground for AI. Decoding the “whale alphabet” teaches us how to decode signals from other species, and perhaps one day from beyond our planet.

What Comes Next

We’re not quite at “talk to whales” yet. We’ve decoded structure, not meaning, and we don’t know if they have names for each other, tell stories, or have words for the ocean. Answering those questions will require more data, more AI analysis, and eventually interactive experiments where we try to “speak back.”

But we now know the “whale alphabet” is rich and structured. It is not limited to a fixed list of calls, but a flexible system capable of expressing a huge range of ideas. That’s an invitation to listen closer.

With AI as our tool, we’re finally starting to hear what whales have been saying all along.

Sources:

For the Love of Reading

Soham C
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For the Love of Reading

Reading is a habit that is very useful in life. Many people like different types of genres including: Action, fantasy, comedy, drama, horror, science fiction, dystopian, mystery, thriller, and many more. However, all books have one thing in common: they are words written by a person on a page.

Benefits of Reading Books

Reading helps increase your vocabulary. A poll, conducted by Cengage, in 2019 said that 69% of employers are more likely to hire people who can communicate beneficially. You should read to increase your vocabulary.

Reading is a stress buster! A study discovered that 25 – 30 minuets of reading a day helps reduce heart rate and blood pressure. Some people say reading is stressful but that is just their beliefs. If you are stressed out then you should read books.

Reading is your best friend. Books are loyal companions which provide us with knowledge, comfort, and much more. If you are lonely then you should read books. Also you can tell books anything you want and they will listen. Sometimes friends aren’t willing to listen, however, that is never the case with books.

Continue

Feature-a-Founder: Planting Hope in Unlikely Places: An interview with Anne Johnson

Mayor's Youth Council
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Feature-a-Founder: Planting Hope in Unlikely Places: An interview with Anne Johnson

Presented by the Mayor’s Youth Council (MYC), our Feature-a-Founder spotlight is designed to highlight youth-led initiatives in Calgary making a positive impact. This month, we’re featuring Anne Johnson, the co-founder of The Iris Project.

Have you ever stopped to look at an iris? Aside from it’s vibrant petals, there is something remarkably resilient about this flower. You’ll find them in the most unlikely places clinging to the cracks of a sidewalk, bordering a forgotten pool, or blooming where most people assume life isn’t meant to thrive. To Anne Johnson, the co-founder and president of The Iris Project, this flower is more than just a wonder, it is a symbol of hope and a reminder that “warmer days are coming,” even in the toughest environments.

At an age when most students are just beginning to navigate the pressures of high school, Anne has built a movement. With active chapters in both Calgary, Alberta, and Temecula, California, The Iris Project is a student-led non-profit dedicated to supporting the community’s most vulnerable members through the power of the creative arts.The Iris Project Anne

Her Vision

The seeds of the Iris Project were planted during Anne’s 9th grade year. Alongside her co-founder, Michelle, Anne was already a frequent volunteer with Youth Central. However, they felt a calling to do something more personalized to bridge the gap between their love for the arts and the tangible needs of their community.

“I have always played various instruments, and all my extracurriculars revolve around the arts,” Anne shares. When she and Michelle saw an opportunity to apply for a micro grant, they jumped at it. They didn’t just want to start a club, they wanted to create a mission: fostering hope in vulnerable communities with a specific focus on creative expression. 

For Anne, the organization is important not just for the impact it makes but also for the community it builds among youth. “I’ve met and experienced such great things, working alongside some of the most intelligent and wonderful people in my peer group,” she says. Today, she leads a dedicated team of women, delegating tasks and heading initiatives that prove youth are changemakers.

Art as a Bridge Between Generations

While The Iris Project has launched several successful programs including distributing over 100 hand-painted “Birthday Baskets” to women’s and children’s shelters and creating “Affirmation Chairs” for cancer centers there is one initiative that holds a particularly special place in Anne’s heart: Capturing Memories.

In collaboration with Club 36, an Alzheimer’s support program, Anne recruited student artists from her school to partner with seniors. The goal was simple yet profound: spend time together. Once a week, the pairs engaged in conversation and shared activities, allowing the students to truly “see” the person behind the diagnosis.

The students then translated the seniors’ life stories into custom artworks. At the end of the program, a showcase was held where these pieces were gifted to the seniors and their families as “keepsakes”.

“The creative fraction of the brain is often the last to deteriorate,” Anne explains. “I’ve worked with patients who might not remember who they are with, but they know every single lyric to their favorite song. Through art, we wanted to capture and immortalize these memories, even if they are fading.”

For Anne, this wasn’t just about the art, it was about breaking the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s. She wanted to ensure these seniors didn’t feel “othered” or distanced from society. Seeing the intergenerational bonds form was, in her words, “heartwarming” a testament that we should never distance ourselves from common human experiences, no matter how difficult they may seem.

Defending the Arts in a STEM-Focused World

One of the most profound lessons Anne has learned through this journey is the essential role the arts play in our personal and social lives. In a world where high schoolers are often pressured to prioritize STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), Anne noticed a disheartening trend.

“It’s clear that STEM subjects are held at a higher value, and people are sometimes made fun of for considering the arts in post-secondary education,” she observes. Through The Iris Project, Anne is actively challenging the idea that creativity is just a “frivolous hobby.”

She believes that every creative has something valuable to contribute to the world. Her work has shown her that art isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s a tool for empathy and a way to communicate when words fail.

Navigating the Difficulties of a Youth Founder

Running a nonprofit while still in school isn’t all showcases and flower-themed branding, it comes with significant logistical hurdles. For Anne, the biggest obstacle has been funding. “It’s difficult getting funding when you aren’t a registered charity or if you don’t have of age board members,” she admits. Most traditional grants are gatekept by age requirements. However, Anne’s resourcefulness has been her greatest asset. She has successfully secured youth-focused grants through Youth Central and the City of Calgary, while also looking into partnerships with registered charities to gain more access to resources.

Her journey proves that while the system may not always be built for young founders, there is always a way through if you are willing to look for “cracks” in the sidewalk.

Advice for the Next Generation

If you’re a student sitting on a big idea but waiting for the “right time” to start, Anne has a message for you: The right time is right now.

“No matter how much work you think it will be, or the thought that your ideas aren’t good enough, start putting them into motion ASAP!” she urges. “The fear of doing something new is absolutely nothing compared to the regret of never trying.”

Final Thoughts

Meeting Anne makes you realize that being a “founder” isn’t about having a fancy office or a decade of experience. It’s about having the empathy to see a need in your community and the courage to use your unique talents, whether that’s painting, music, or leadership to fill it. Anne Johnson isn’t just planting irises, she’s planting a legacy of compassion that will bloom for years to come!

Next Steps
Started a project? Apply to Feature-a-Founder to be featured and share your impact – submit your story here!

Need help getting your idea off the ground? Explore our grants and funding opportunities: youthcentral.com/grants.

How Did April Fools’ Day Begin?

Khanh Linh
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How Did April Fools’ Day Begin?

Every year on April 1, people around the world play harmless jokes and funny tricks on each other. This special day is called April Fools’ Day. But have you ever wondered where it came from?

Even historians are not completely sure how it started. There are a few popular stories about its origins.

A Popular Story from France

One of the most famous explanations goes back to France in the 1500s.

At that time, many people followed the Julian calendar, where the new year began around April 1. Later, France changed to the Gregorian calendar, which moved New Year’s Day to January 1.

However, news did not spread quickly in those days. Some people did not know about the change and continued celebrating the new year on April 1.

Because of this, others made fun of them and called them “April fools.” Over time, this became a tradition of playing jokes on that day.

Other Theories

Some historians believe April Fools’ Day may be even older.

One theory connects it to spring festivals in ancient Rome, where people celebrated with fun and playful activities.

Another possible origin comes from England in the Middle Ages. Some scholars believe the writer Geoffrey Chaucer may have mentioned an April 1 prank in one of his stories.

Because there is no clear proof, the true beginning of April Fools’ Day remains a mystery.

Why Do People Play Pranks?

April Fools’ Day is all about lighthearted fun.

People often play small jokes on friends, family, classmates, or coworkers. These jokes should be harmless and funny, not hurtful.

Some famous organizations, such as news channels and companies, have even created clever April Fools’ jokes that fooled many people.

Final Thoughts

Although no one knows exactly how April Fools’ Day began, it has become a fun tradition celebrated around the world.

Whether it started in France, England, or even earlier, one thing is clear: it is a day for laughter, surprises, and harmless fun.

Just remember to stay a little extra skeptical on April 1!

Source: [1], [2], [3]

5 Ways to Make This Summer Unforgettable Without Spending a Fortune

Vasundhara Joshi
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5 Ways to Make This Summer Unforgettable Without Spending a Fortune

Summer is almost here and it’s the perfect time to slow down, have fun, and make memories that last. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to make it feel special. With a little creativity and planning, even the simplest days can turn into unforgettable moments. Here are five ways to make this summer one you will always remember.

  1. DIY Fun at Home
    You can turn your home into a little summer haven with easy DIY projects. Try making your own room decor, creating a summer photo wall, or even starting a small craft project like friendship bracelets, painted plant pots, or homemade candles. These projects are not only fun but also give you something tangible to show for your summer creativity. Plus, spending time making something with your own hands feels surprisingly satisfying.
  2. Backyard Picnics and Sleepovers
    You don’t need to go far to make a day feel special. Grab a blanket, some snacks, and your friends or family for a picnic in the backyard. Add some fairy lights, portable speakers, or a simple homemade dessert for extra fun. If you want to go a little further, turn it into a mini backyard sleepover with movies, star-gazing, and late-night storytelling. It’s amazing how a little effort and imagination can turn a familiar space into a magical summer hangout.
  3. Creative Challenges
    Keeping your brain and hands busy can make summer feel exciting and fulfilling. Start a 30-day photo challenge to capture something beautiful every day, sketch a little each morning, or try cooking a new recipe every week. Even small goals like writing in a journal, learning a few words in a new language, or experimenting with music can give your summer structure while keeping it fun. By the end of the season, you will be amazed at how much you created and learned.
  4. Explore Free Local Events
    Your city or neighborhood probably has more to offer than you realize. Keep an eye out for free concerts, workshops, art exhibits, or community festivals. These events are a great way to try something new, meet people, and discover hidden gems around you. Even a simple trip to a local park for a free yoga session or a street performance can turn an ordinary day into a memorable adventure.
  5. Mini Experiments and Adventures
    Adventure doesn’t have to mean traveling far or spending a lot of money. Take small risks that feel exciting. Go for a morning hike, try a new sport, explore a nearby trail, or even experiment with a little science or tech project at home. These tiny adventures make each day feel like a new experience. Sometimes, the small discoveries like finding a secret park, trying a smoothie recipe that actually works, or nailing a skateboard trick, can make the entire summer feel memorable.

Summer is almost here, and it’s the perfect chance to slow down, enjoy the little moments, and make memories that you will look back on with a smile. With a little imagination, creativity, and a sense of adventure, this summer can be your best one yet.

Wellness Through Games

Kheta
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Wellness Through Games

Generally, when we think of wellness, we think of meditation and yoga practices, but that might sound boring, especially for youth. Most people associate silence and boredom with well-being activities, but what if someone told you that improving your mental health can come alongside fun!. Many games are mood boosters that also sharpen cognitive thinking. While gaming for several hours isn’t beneficial for the mind, here are the top 5 popular games that can be played as a way to reduce stress, refresh your mind and improve cognitive functions.

Sudoku:

Pixabay. By franzl34. Published on December 1st 2014. Sudoku

Sudoku Puzzles lower stress levels by allowing users to enter a “flow state”. Through playing, you are training your brain to analyze patterns and create focus. Sudoku can help cope with anxiety through creating a distraction-free environment. It also improves your self-esteem through creating a sense of accomplishment. Many health professionals suggest incorporating 5-10 minutes of Sudoku into your routine as a way to take a mental break. Oftentimes, when individuals are overwhelmed, they cannot focus on meditation techniques; therefore, isolating from distractions through puzzles becomes an effective alternative.

 

Wordle:

Unsplash. By Joshua Hoehne. Published on March 30, 2022

Whether it be for well-being or for fun, Wordle is a popular game that only takes 5-10 minutes to complete. Wordle helps with identifying patterns similar to other puzzle games. Wordle allows users to use creativity and strategic methods to solve a puzzle. Not only is it a daily dopamine booster, but it also improves cognitive health. On top of all the well-being benefits, you are strengthening the part of your brain responsible for language interpretation!

Tetris:

Pixabay. By MusicTobi. Published on November 23, 2017

Tetris is a game that has been around for multiple decades, and while it was an arcade game when it first came out, recent research proves that it actually improves mental health. Specifically, Tetris can reduce immediate involuntary memories for individuals who have been exposed to trauma. While it isn’t an independent cure to PTSD, playing the game does help with managing trauma flashbacks. Other research claims that Tetris helps with visuospatial processing, specifically through mental rotation and recognizing shapes. Similar to other games for improving well-being, incorporating 5-10 minutes of Tetris in your routine will help reduce overwhelming thoughts.

Flowy:

Unsplash. By Fabian Moller. Published on October 4, 2017

FLowy is a game designed for individuals struggling to manage panic attacks. This game uses your breathing patterns to control the puzzle you will encounter. The interactive game helps keep your breath under control in stressful situations. Plus, the game has a low-stress and engaging visual layout that helps create a calm environment. While this game does not replace treatment or professional therapy, it is a great way to manage the symptoms of anxiety and panic.

Just Dance:

Unsplash. By Vitaly Gariev. Published on September 22, 2025

Last but not least, Just Dance is a wonderful way to improve your well-being. The music, social interaction, and engaging movements in just dance create a stress-free atmosphere. Dance allows people to express themselves, leading to the release of positive emotions. Research shows that Just Dance and other forms of dance release neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Altogether, these neurotransmitters help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The best part is, you don’t have to be great at dancing to start a Just Dance. Just call a few friends and follow along!

 

As we approach World Health Day (April 7th) and International Wellness Day (April 15th), remember that maintaining good mental health doesn’t have to be a serious task. Playing games, spending time outdoors and doing what benefits you most are all a part of well-being.

 

1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12

The Ultimate Dopamine Menu

Suha Arvapalli
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2
The Ultimate Dopamine Menu

With World Health Day coming up on April 7th, this month is a great opportunity for all of us to step back and assess how we’re doing, both mentally and physically. In a society where extreme productivity is encouraged, being “on the grind” is mandatory, and hustle culture is glorified, prioritizing mental health is becoming increasingly more difficult. It’s hard to stay on top of everything without burning out, and to achieve your goals without ruining your sleep schedule? Unheard of.

This kind of culture needs to stop being romanticized, especially with impressionable youth on the line. The benefits are outweighed by the detrimental impacts this lifestyle has on students and their developing brains, with cortisol levels hitting all-time highs.

For anyone feeling the mid-semester mental slump creeping up on them, you may benefit from some dopamine in your system.

What is Dopamine? 

One of our body’s most vital neurotransmitters and hormones, dopamine plays a major role in several life functions. Whether it’s memory, sleep, or movement, dopamine is mainly known for being the “happy” hormone, part of your body’s reward system. When released into your bloodstream, it is closely tied with emotions like joy and pleasure, and heavily impacts your motivation to do tasks.

During stressful times, it becomes evident that your dopamine levels are low if you’re feeling burnt out, fatigued, and unmotivated. In order to care for our mental well-being, it’s important to take breaks to participate in activities that bring us happiness, increasing our dopamine levels enough to get back on track with the less-exciting stuff. When your mind is armed with a hit of dopamine, your motivation to get things done and overall productivity rise, allowing you to tackle problems with less mental turmoil.

It’s important to remember that too much dopamine can be hazardous to our brains as well. Short-form content on apps like TikTok isn’t a great choice for breaks, as they make your brain more fatigued from the constant sensory overload. Too much dopamine can lead to sleep problems, impulsivity, and a lower attention span.

Fluctuating levels of dopamine are normal for youth, but always remember to reach out if you feel like something is off, as many health conditions are related to high or low dopamine levels.

If you’re feeling low, look at the Dopamine Menu below for activities to lift your spirits!

Dopamine Menu

Appetizers

For those of us who need a quick pick-me-up. Small activities that make us feel a little lighter, more energized, and ready to take on the day. 

  • Blast your favourite song
  • Make yourself a fun drink
  • Change into your favourite (or comfiest) outfit
  • Do the Wordle (and other NYT puzzles!)
  • Grab a snack
  • Talk to your pet (or your plant!)
  • Do 20 reps of one exercise (e.g. jumping jacks, push-ups, burpees, etc.)
  • Go outside
  • Stretch
  • Clean desk
  • Plan your day/afternoon/evening

Entrees

Longer and more immersive activities for enjoyment and relaxation

  • Put on a comfort show or read a comfort book
  • Light a candle and journal/colour/draw/read/knit (pick any relaxing activity!)
  • Go to the gym or do a workout at home
  • Try out a new recipe
  • Listen to a new podcast or audiobook
  • Call your friends/family
  • Pick a random topic you know a lot about and write about it
  • Go for a bike ride
  • Learn a new skill/take on a new hobby
  • Play a board game

Desserts

Take more planning, time, and money- special activities

  • Join a new fanbase for a day. You can pick a random sport, show, or band, and learn everything there is about it. Pretend you’re a hardcore fan!
  • Go shopping, or plan a different solo date activity
  • Book a massage or a spa day
  • Go to a concert
  • Visit a new cafe in your city
  • Plan a meetup with your friends
  • Travel to a new city/go on an excursion
  • Go to the movie theatre and pick a random movie you know nothing about

Conclusion

There’s no shame in admitting that you need a break. The constant need to be productive isn’t healthy either. Sometimes, doing activities that we enjoy just for the sake of having fun is more beneficial than spending that extra hour on work. It’s vital to plan out times in your day for relaxation and to take those breaks without the pressures of all your responsibilities looming over you.

Having a dopamine menu takes the decision fatigue away. Seeing a list of activities and the time you’ll take to complete each one allows your brain to choose without wasting time on planning. When you find yourself overwhelmed with work, pick one of the appetizers to recenter your mind and gain motivation to begin your tasks. If you have more time throughout your day, try one of the entrees, ensuring that you stay present in the moment for at least an hour, without external pressures plaguing your thoughts. For weekends off of work and school, the desserts are a great way to spend your day away from productivity!

If you have the time, make your own dopamine menu with activities specialized just for you and your lifestyle. It’s fun and a great excuse for taking a break. 😉

Sources: 1

What Your Wordle Strategy Says About You

Anne J
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1
What Your Wordle Strategy Says About You

I first discovered Wordle in my seventh grade math class, where my teacher would do the daily 5 letter guessing game with us at the start of each class. I remember how fun it was, how we all used to yell our suggestions, brainstorm word ideas, and beg to do more after we inevitably succeeded or failed. I continued doing these Wordles well after my grade seven year – and still to this day – and find them such a fun little treat to do on the train to and from school, before bed, or even on the treadmill. As I was doing today’s Wordle, shamefully getting the word on the very last try, I began to think about what the best strategy would be to winning in the most effective manner. Then, I thought about why I was getting upset over not guessing the Wordle fast enough, and thinking about whether my “POISE” starter was not good enough. After that I thought, why can’t we all just guess the words we want? What makes “CRANE” so much better than “BEEFY”? I guess some words are just more equal than others huh…I see how it is. In this line of thinking, I came up with 3 different approaches to the daily Wordle, and what it says about you (yes this is definite and absolutely true). Enjoy!

The Strategist

This individual will start off with a carefully crafted starting word, including as many vowels as possible, as well as common letters such as R, S, T, and N.

  • i.e POISE (this one is good trust), CRANE, AUDIO, TRACE

After this, they will carefully strategize their next moves to maximize potential of winning in the least amount of tries possible, NEVER EVER putting a letter where they know it doesn’t belong, or (god forbid) re – use a letter they know is not in the word.

If you are this person, you are probably an intense planner, perfectionist, and analytical. You enjoy figuring out the most logical route to maximizing your wins, and take a similar approach to your pursuits – careful, strategic (as the name suggests), and interested in efficiency and excellence (maybe to an unhealthy degree, maybe).

Play it Safe

The “play it safe” individual is a little bit hesitant, terribly afraid of seeing the doomed fate of 5 gray letters flipping onto their screen after they press enter. These people have a method, and stick to it. Perhaps they stick to the same tried and true starter (guilty…), or hesitate guessing weird words.

If this is you, you value stability and steer clear from surprises in your life. You may not necessarily care about winning in the best way possible, you probably just care not to fail. You rarely lose, but win in the 4th – 6th try typically. You value your streak, and I respect it.

Chaotic, or just Whimsical

This individual essentially just puts whatever word they feel like. Hm, maybe start out with “BIRDY”…oh, there’s no B or D? Just throw in “BREAD” because I’m hungry…okay no E or A…why don’t we try “TREAT” ! 😀

This person is someone I enjoy greatly. So full of whimsy and life. Guess whatever you want to, it’s a 2 minute online word game. These people are carefree and free – spirited, and I admire them. Go whimsical player, keep guessing “QWERTY”, “PSALM”, and “CRYPT”. Keep going out on your beautiful whims – and you know what? These are the type of players who will have the most first – second try wins. Risk taking and being yourself is the best way to go for these people.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed reading this article – maybe you gained some new insights on your personality, or scoffed at my poor, armchair psychology efforts. Maybe you picked up a new strategy for these daily puzzles, or perhaps you will continue the whimsical approach of entering whatever word your heart desires.

Either way, thank you Wordle for being something small we all look forward to everyday!

From Podcasts to Perspective

Kheta
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0
From Podcasts to Perspective

If you have ever listened to a podcast, think back to what you were thinking when you were listening to it. Did it feel interesting? Did you find something relatable between you and the speaker? Did it bring back memories of experiences in your life? 

Whether it be listening to a podcast on Spotify or liking a podcast reel on Instagram, podcasts have been loved worldwide.  Podcasts have an unprecedented effect on listeners, which is often overlooked. No matter who the interviewee is, ideas brought forth through podcasts provide relatability and spark questions in the listener’s mind. The topic might be as simple as whether you would put milk in the bowl first or cereal, but through listening to the answer, you unintentionally reflect on your thoughts. This form of reflection and conversation has many layers, so without further ado, let’s dive into it!

 

The Art of Storytelling:

Pixabay. By Tumisu. Published on May 14, 2019. Storytelling

Whether it be driving home from work, sitting on a train, doing a chore or simply going for a walk, podcasts follow a similar pattern to music in which users feel engaged in listening while working on tasks. The best part about storytelling through podcasts is the emotional human connection that makes each podcast unique. Podcasts drive listeners into a realm of imagination and they allow the mind to focus on a specific topic. Listening to a podcast makes you want to dive deeper into multiple perspectives. Similar to stories, podcasts have multiple genres, whether it be conversational, fictional or a real-life story. Within the genres, you can choose from current events and lifestyle. Habits, character-based stories, business mindsets, drama, pop culture, etc.. While everyone has preferences on what genres they prefer, a well-crafted podcast of any genre will grab your attention.

 

Relatability:

Pixabay. By Daniel Chrisman. Published on April 10, 2024.

Even if you haven’t heard a full podcast, you might have come across a glimpse of an interview through an Instagram edit. Whether it be a businessman saying something about productivity or a famous actor talking about their own life experiences, podcasts have the ability to inspire. 

Oftentimes, we disassociate the social media world from real life by comparing our lives to those of famous people. Through podcasts, however, a listener starts to realize the similarities between them and their idol. Most people think it is impossible to become a successful celebrity because their life trajectory doesn’t match that of Taylor Swift or Bill Gates. In that case, you need to listen to a podcast featuring a famous icon. By listening to a podcast where such people are interviewed, you can foster relatability. Listening to podcasts stimulates motivation, and it provides hope for people aspiring to achieve big dreams that otherwise seem impossible.

A study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information found that youth find comfort and trust through relatability, which boosts their well-being. Relatability is a gift that helps people feel supported and motivated. While you might not find every podcast relatable, there will definitely be ideas that you feel connected to, and they might come from the most unexpected individual. 

 

Learning Through Podcasts:

Pixabay. By Sik Life. Published on January 24, 2018

Learning is significantly more effective when the topic is presented interestingly. Unlike traditional school methods, podcasts can teach you concepts in a conversational manner, which makes learning feel less like a task and more like an experience. 

Podcasts are also a more effective method of active retention. You are allowing your brain to conduct cognitive thinking while you comprehend the ideas being discussed. With videos, you can understand concepts but through podcasts, you are forced to imagine the concepts. This way, you can trace your memory back to the same concept without having to memorize it. Most podcasts add details in storytelling or conversations through texture. On the other hand, your teachers and professors use a monotone voice, which makes the content disengaging. 

 

A New Perspective:

Pixabay. By White Crows Nest. Published on August 16, 2022.

A unique trait of a podcast is its ability to challenge the listener’s perspective. No matter how strong a supporter you are, podcasts influence your way of thought through presenting an alternate perspective. 

Unlike real-life conversations, where both parties present different perspectives, podcasts force you to listen instead of respond. In the era of scrolling through endless reels that demand instant reactions, podcasts promote slow thinking. 

This creates an opportunity to gain knowledge on viewpoints that you would otherwise strongly oppose. By the end of the podcast, you might not agree with the speaker, but you will become more open to accepting new ideas. This is an important soft skill to develop because it helps you form stronger arguments, make well-rounded decisions and become a better listener. 

 

Podcast Culture:

Unsplash. By Haerul Ambiya. Published on February 15, 2026. Listening on a Train

Interestingly enough, the podcast culture has gained popularity in the past decade with more podcast creation and listeners. Multiple sources claim that around 619 million people globally are listening to podcasts in 2026, which is a significant rise from 2024 when there were 546.7 million listeners. 

So why are so many people listening to podcasts? Oftentimes, especially among Gen Z, thinking about the world around us becomes overwhelming. Listening to podcasts helps debrief the situation while creating an authentic and relatable environment for everyone. Plus, with the hustle culture taking rise, people can easily listen to podcasts on the go. Unlike movies, you do not have to sit for multiple hours to entertain yourself when you can multitask by simply wearing headphones.

 

Conclusion:

Altogether, podcasts are a delightful way of entertainment that doesn’t require much effort. Listening to an episode of a podcast not only boosts your mental health but it also enhances your cognitive thinking. No matter what you enjoy, there is definitely a podcast out there that will spark a question or help you dive deeper into your thoughts. So the next time you are bored with your normal life, put on a pair of headphones- you might be fascinated by a new perspective!

1,2,3,4,5,6,7

The Joys of Spring

Soham C
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1
The Joys of Spring

Spring is the season of fresh beginnings, growth, hope, and happiness. Spring is also noticed every time when we go outside to take a breath of fresh air. The colors of the trees, grass, bushes, shrubs are all appealing to our eyes.

Every season has its own qualities, however, spring brings the powerful message of revival. Whenever the leaves come back on trees or the flowers bloom again there is hope of life returning from the sluggishness of winter to the happiness of spring.

The season of spring also brings longer days, that allows more people to spend their time outside. People could play sports, go for walks, have picnics without the cold conditions of winter.

Furthermore, spring can have boosts in creativity and productivity. People can be inspired by nature and clean their surroundings and do new activities. People can also find their inner talent and be motivated to set goals.

Spring is one of the best seasons in the world and is also thought to be the best season out of all four. The Chinook winds also take place in spring reducing amounts of snow and making life better. The winds come from the Rocky mountains causing temperature spikes to 20 degrees Celsius.

Thankfully we know that there is a season that can give people such an amazing time. I also like spring more because the temperature starts to rise without any annoying bugs and dragonflies flying around. With no mosquito bites and bee stings all people should like spring.

The Hubble Telescope – Simplified

Areej C
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0
The Hubble Telescope – Simplified

The Hubble Space Telescope, the first sophisticated telescope, allowed humans to view space from a perspective never seen before, taking never seen before images and transmitting them back to Earth. The clearest photographs of space have been provided through the aid of this telescope.

The idea of sending a telescope into space emerged in the 1940s but it took over forty years later to make that dream a reality. This first major telescope was launched into the orbit on April 24, 1990, by NASA. It was named after Edwin Hubble, who greatly contributed to our knowledge of universe and introduced the concept of expansion of universe. The Hubble’s first picture was taken on May 20, 1990.

It has enabled us to have more clear view of objects in the space and marked a new phase of observation of the universe. The Hubble was involved in many world-shattering findings, namely:

• Revealing the age of the universe
• Gaining more insights into how planets form
• Discovery of two new moons orbiting Pluto
• Unveiling the mystery surrounding stars as they burn out
• Increasing knowledge on comets and black holes
• Exploring the history of the universe
• Mapping dark matter in 3D
• Measuring sizes of planets
• Viewing asteroid collisions in space
• Detecting water vapor eruption on one of Jupiter’s moons

All of these discoveries show that the invention of the Hubble Telescope has been  so incredibly important to modern science. It has not only provided us with better views of the universe, but has changed the way we look at our universe and made it more familiar to us.

Sources: 1, 2, 3

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