ALONE?

 

Studies show the ability to tolerate alone time has been linked to increased happiness, better life satisfaction, and improved stress management. People who enjoy alone time experience less depression.

Short-term tips to get you started to avoid comparing yourself to others are easy to be said: 

Take a step back from social media. …
Take a phone break. …
Carve out time to let your mind wander. …
Take yourself on a date. …
Get physical. …
Spend time with nature. …
Lean into the perks of being alone.

I can be a reluctant socializer. I’m sometimes secretly pleased when social plans are called off. I get restless a few hours into a hangout. Maybe, I’ll not be invited any more. Or not so often… . I even once went on a free 10-day silent meditation retreat – not for the meditation, but for the silence.

So I can relate to author Anneli Rufus, who recounted in Party of One: The Loners’ Manifesto: “When parents on TV shows punished their kids by ordering them to go to their rooms, I was confused. I loved my room. Being there behind a locked door was a treat. To me a punishment was being ordered to play Yahtzee with my cousin Louis.”
Several years ago in one of my write-ups, I wrote about loneliness or in other words splendid isolation.

Asocial tendencies like these are often far from ideal. Abundant research shows the harms of social isolation, considered a serious public health problem in countries that have rapidly ageing populations (though talk of a ‘loneliness epidemic’ may be overblown). In the UK, the Royal College of General Practitioners says that loneliness has the same risk level for premature death as diabetes. Strong social connections are important for cognitive functioning, motor function and a smoothly running immune system.

This is especially clear from cases of extreme social isolation. Examples of people kept in captivity, children kept isolated in abusive orphanages, and prisoners kept in solitary confinement all show how prolonged solitude can lead to hallucinations and other forms of mental instability.

But these are severe and involuntary cases of loneliness. For those of us who just prefer plenty of alone time, emerging research suggests some good news: there are upsides to being reclusive – for both our work lives and our emotional well-being.
Social anxiety is the single most common psychological problem according to innumerable survey results worldwide. The magnificent, gorgeous and excellent isolation, resulting from being nervous when meeting people is really the opposite. The state of being isolated reminds me of being in a hospital with an infectious disease.

Does the project of giving a speech or going to a social gathering give you the willies?
Relax, there are always ways and solutions to help you but teaching you “never to be nervous again”. 

I have always been the most silent pupil in elementary and high school. I was ashamed even to talk to or with my teachers. Several terrible school records have been the result. But, I wanted to become a journalist. I am still one.

During college times and while writing my first articles, I learned from my first boss, a daily news publisher, to avoid being nervous while meeting people. I was always prepared. Preparation for any communicating situation is a must. I have been invited to many parties and gatherings. I always asked for the guest list. I scanned all the newspapers and browsed the net. 

One key benefit is improved creativity. Gregory Feist, who focuses on the psychology of creativity at California’s San Jose State University, has defined creativity as thinking or activity with two key elements: originality and usefulness. He has found that personality traits commonly associated with creativity are openness (receptiveness to new thoughts and experiences), self-efficacy (confidence), and autonomy (independence) – which may include “a lack of concern for social norms” and “a preference for being alone”. In fact, Feist’s research on both artists and scientists shows that one of the most prominent features of creative folks is their lesser interest in socializing.

One reason for this is that such people are likely to spend sustained time alone working on their craft. Plus, Feist says, many artists “are trying to make sense of their internal world and a lot of internal personal experiences that they’re trying to give expression to and meaning to through their art.” Solitude allows for the reflection and observation necessary for that creative process.

A recent vindication of these ideas came from University at Buffalo psychologist Julie Bowker, who researches social withdrawal. Social withdrawal usually is categorized into three types: shyness caused by fear or anxiety; avoidance, from a dislike of socializing; and insociability, from a preference for solitude.

There is gender and cultural variation, of course. For instance, some research suggests that unsociable children in China have more interpersonal and academic problems than unsociable kids in the West. Bowker says that these differences are narrowing as the world becomes more globalized.

Still, it turns out that solitude is important for more than creativity. Since ancient times, meanwhile, people have been aware of a link between isolation and mental focus. After all, cultures with traditions of religious hermits believe that solitude is important for enlightenment.

Recent research has given us a better understanding of why. One benefit of unsociability is the brain’s state of active mental rest, which goes hand-in-hand with the stillness of being alone. When another person is present, your brain can’t help but pay some attention. This can be a positive distraction. But it’s still a distraction.
Daydreaming in the absence of such distractions activates the brain’s default-mode network. Among other functions, this network helps to consolidate memory and understand others’ emotions. Giving free rein to a wandering mind not only helps with focus in the long term but strengthens your sense of both yourself and others. Paradoxically, therefore, periods of solitude actually help when it comes time to socialize once more. And the occasional absence of focus ultimately helps concentration in the long run.

I learned, if your personality tends toward insociability, you shouldn’t feel the need to change. Of course, that comes with caveats. But as long as you have regular social contact, you are choosing solitude rather than being forced into it, you have at least a few good friends and your solitude is good for your well-being or productivity, there’s no point agonizing over how to fit a square personality into a round hole.

So feel free to de-clutter your social calendar. It’s psychologist-approved.

COA orders audit of flood control projects

DOE pushes for waste reduction to curb flooding

The Commission on Audit (COA) has ordered an investigation into the flood control projects in Bulacan on allegations of fraud and other irregularities. After the rollout of the Sumbong sa Pangulo website dedicated for the probe and assessment of flood-control projects in the country, Malacanang said that they have received 1,148 reports and 823 feedback on the said website. Read more

Meanwhile, as Metro Manila grapples with persistent flooding during the rainy season, the Department of Energy (DOE) is renewing its focus on waste-to-energy (WTE) as a potential solution to both reduce waste and contribute to the country’s energy supply.

Artist mounts exhibit in Davao City

 

RENOWNED artist Anthony Fermin unveiled his latest exhibit – Anthony Fermin: An Exposition with the Masters – on Friday afternoon, Aug. 15, at The Atrium of SM Lanang in Davao City. (Ivy Tejano)

By Ivy Tejano

Published Aug 16, 2025 03:51 pm

The highly anticipated showcase, which opened at 4:30 p.m., brings together the works of Philippine masters alongside Fermin’s own deeply personal and faith-inspired pieces.

Fermin said that his family is the central inspiration in his newest collection. He said most of his paintings have children, a message for all parents to have time with their children.

“The central inspiration of my exhibit is my family. I remember my kids in my paintings because most of the time I’m away with them because of my job,” Fermin said.

Fermin, who has been in the industry for over 30 years, said that his art carries personal meaning and a spiritual message.

“I dedicate this event to the Almighty. He is the star of this show,” he said. “My journey is not easy. But that doesn’t mean we have to stop. Despite the challenges, we have to pursue life.”

Fermin’s works embody transformation, resilience, and optimism.

Inspired by prayer and gratitude, Fermin’s paintings highlight themes of renewal and portrays struggles replaced with joy and negativity erased to make way for hope.

Fermin said his graffiti-like concepts depict figures symbolically removing life’s burdens, rendered in vibrant colors and expressive strokes that celebrate the Filipino spirit.

Fermin said the exhibit from Aug. 15 to 18 presents original masterpieces by National Artist Fernando Amorsolo, Angelito Antonio, Romeo Tabuena, Gus Albor, Isidro Ancheta, Juvenal Sanso, H.R. Ocampo, and Vicente Manansala.

He thanked SM Lanang, people behind the exhibit, and special guest Nancy dela Rosa, wife of Sen. Ronald dela Rosa.

“We chose Davao because Davao City is special to me,” Fermin added. “It’s a privilege to exhibit my paintings with these masters, and I thanked SM for providing an opportunity like this to artists like me.”

Claudia Valentina launches bold new single 'Candy'

By MBrand

Claudia at The Great Escape Festival. (Courtesy of Gay Times)

British-born singer-songwriter Claudia Valentina makes a powerful return to the global music scene with the release of her new single Candy. At just 24 years old, she brings a fresh and dynamic sound that blends pop, R&B, and electronic influences into an energetic anthem celebrating confidence, individuality, and empowerment.

Claudia’s journey to this moment has been shaped by determination and creativity. Raised on the quiet island of Guernsey, she immersed herself in ballet and drama from a young age. By 10, she had already landed a role in Billy Elliot the Musical in London. Later, she moved with her mother to Los Angeles, chasing the Hollywood dream. Years of auditions, rejections, and studio work forged the resilient and self-assured artist she is today, as noted by The Face magazine.

Before stepping into the spotlight with her music, Claudia made waves behind the scenes as a songwriter. She co-wrote tracks for global superstars, including BLACKPINK’s Jump and Jennie’s Mantra. Working with renowned producers such as Johan Carlsson, Lostboy, and Tom Mann, Claudia developed a sound that combines infectious pop hooks with raw emotional honesty. 

Why 'Candy' stands out

Candy is more than a catchy pop track; it represents Claudia’s bold artistic vision and fearless self-expression. The song features polished production, rich harmonies, and her confident vocals, delivering themes of empowerment, identity, and independence. Claudia describes her music as something people can both feel intimately and experience cinematically, aiming to create songs that are “music that people make babies to” (MYP Magazine).(MYP Magazine).

A Visual Spectacle

The official Candy music video is a vivid expression of Claudia’s creative vision. Blending vintage Americana style with a modern edge, she leads an all-female cast through striking choreography and cinematic scenes. Full Access Magazine highlights that this concept was six years in the making, reflecting Claudia’s commitment to meticulous storytelling.

Claudia Valentina for Extra Agenda. (Courtesy of Dork)

Rooted in authenticity

Influenced by her travels between Guernsey, London, and Los Angeles, Claudia’s style is a unique blend of diverse inspirations. Growing up without a local music scene, she sought creativity from the world around her, crafting a sound that mirrors her international experiences.

“I’ve spent a big part of my life hunting the right setup with my team, and I’m lucky to call them my best friends as well,” she shares with MYP Magazine.

Her image combines “Chanel” glamour with “Supergirl” boss energy, a deliberate choice reflecting her desire to make every project as grand as possible. This philosophy shines through in both Candy’s sound and visuals, according to The Face.

Poised for global success

With catchy hooks and relatable themes, Candy is set to resonate with audiences worldwide. Claudia’s successful songwriting background in both Western pop and K-pop markets positions her uniquely for crossover appeal. Her bold aesthetic ensures she stands out in today’s crowded music landscape.

Looking ahead

Candy is now streaming on Spotify and available on YouTube, marking the beginning of Claudia's new chapter. She promises more singles, collaborations, and visually ambitious projects in the coming months as she climbs tow

THAT TELLS ME ALL...

... I need to know! Know-it-all-better, who prefer an oppressing or suppressing crab mentality should be really out of place. They poison us and our dignity and our feelings of our own worth. Unfortunately, we can find these people at any corner.

I stayed in many places worldwide - places with people belonging to different kinds of religion. I really don't care which belief people are in. Most importantly, they believe in God and they live a Christian life. I am always very happy when I find churches or prayer places - always open and filled up with praying people.

I am always very happy, when I meet hopeful and promising Christians: priests, pastors, lay people, friends, family members, who know how to share and inspire, and also know how to be patient while starting with a -maybe - "new beginning".

I am also very happy, because I still observe infinite and endless good things every day coming into my life. Slowly but surely, I started to pay attention to such things. I observe several people, who don't! I really try to do preliminary exercises for instance, for amazing things or just for a simple gratitude. With these attitudes I'll be winning each battle a thousand times against those people who live believing that God's creation goes to the dogs and kicks the bucket.

I am really happy if I meet people who understand the real meaning of responsibility. Responsibility to a child, to the family, to a company and its employees, to a public service, an association or a registered society, or anything that supports, sponsors and promotes my surroundings without being egoistic, indifferent or listless. "I don't give a damn!" 

I am always happy to notice people around me, who mean and act "YES" if they say "YES"!

I am always happy to notice something that is taken for granted: parents have time for their children and patience with the youth (really a difficult task sometimes!); someone who takes time to visit a sick neighbor or friend; someone who asks the address of a possible lonely fellow...

Every time period is in God's hands. Let's fulfill these periods and let's also allow our loved-ones at our side to live the same way. Know-it-all-betters, who prefer an oppressing or suppressing crab mentality should be really out of place. Unfortunately we can find such people at any corner. And, we must know how to deal with them.  

How do different regions of Germany make their own version of bratwurst?

 

Volker Eichener

Professor at Hochschule Düsseldorf

First, we have different kinds of Bratwurst everywhere in Germany. Some of the main differences are

• is the sausage raw or precooked (raw is usually the better quality),
• is the sausage finely, medium-finely or coarsely ground (coarsely is better),
• is it in a casing or not,
• which kind of meat is used, just pork (standard) or poultry, beef, venison, veal or even horse meat,
• how is the seasoning (e.g. with herbs or with chili),
• has it additional ingredients (e.g. cheese or wrapped with bacon)?

Second, there are regional specialties.

The most famous German region for Bratwurst is Thüringen. The Thüringer Bratwurst is made from the Boston butt, so it is less fatty than regular Bratwurst. The kind of seasoning varies even within Thüringen:

• In East Thüringen the sausage is seasoned with caraway.
• In North Thüringen people love majoram.
• Middle Thüringen has garlic.
• In Southern Thüringen only salt and pepper are used.

Franken is also famous for its Bratwurst, especially Nürnberg. The Nürnberg Bratwurst is in a sheep casing and hence, it is very small - just 9 cm long while regular Bratwurst is 20 cm long. Also, in Nürnberg marjoram is used for seasoning, but also pepper, chervil, cardamom, ginger and lemon.

Berlin has Bratwurst without casings, due to a lack of casings after WW II. But the people got used to it and like it better today.

I also like the Bratwurst from the Black Forest, which is rather coarse, meaty and typically served with brown gravy and roasted onions.

Here a few pictures:

Raw Bratwurst:

Venison Bratwurst (raw):

Beef Bratwurst (taw):

Bratwurst with cheese and chili (precooked):

Bratwurst “snail”:

Bratwurst from Thüringen (raw):

Thüringer Bratwurst, grilled:

Bratwurst from Nürnberg:

Bratwurst Black Forest style:

Berlin Bratwurst without casing:

Bratwurst from Franken with Sauerkraut:

Regular Bratwurst in a roll with mustard:

Currywurst: Bratwurst with ketchup and curry powder:

What are top 10 professional life hacks?

 

Idol Majima

 · 

President at Majima Construction

1. Never. Ever. Joke about a person’s intellect, body shape or career. Not unless you want to create resentment and destroy your friendship with others.
2. Don’t speak openly of your achievements. Let others find out naturally. The “wow” impact would be greater too.
3. If someone pays you a compliment, accept it and say “thank you”. Don’t be overly humble and reject the compliment.
4. Don’t ask “anyone can help me with this?” Specifically delegate a person. Otherwise, everyone’s going to be waiting for someone to volunteer, which will never happen.
5. Use praise strategically. Don’t give it too easily, but deliver it when it’s well deserving.
6. Deploy punishment tactfully. You don’t want your subordinates (if you’re in a leadership position) to be discouraged by constant scolding, but neither do you want them to feel that they can get away with anything. Be understanding, but remind them occasionally that you mean business.
7. Sound decisive. Don’t ramble, mumble or use “uh” and “um” excessively. It makes you look less competent.
8. Don’t complain.
9. If you’re good at a particular skill, never do it for free.
10. Master your craft. Stand out from the others. Be irreplaceable.

„Besorgniserregend“: Forscher warnen vor Mpox-Ausbreitung – Fälle und Übertragungswege steigen rasant

Stand:16.08.2025, 17:21 Uhr

Von: Leoni Unfried  

Forscher schlagen Alarm, denn es gibt immer mehr Fälle von Mpox. Bei der Unterform der Pockenviren nehmen auch die Ansteckungswege und Varianten zu.

Kassel – Forscher warnen vor der rasanten Ausbreitung von Mpox. Wie das European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) in seinem wöchentlichen Bericht vom 1. August 2025 mitteilt, bereiten nicht nur die Schnelligkeit der Verbreitung Sorgen, sondern auch die Entdeckung neuer Übertragungsmuster. Die WHO bestätigt in ihrem aktuellen Situationsbericht vom 31. Juli 2025, dass verschiedene Bevölkerungsgruppen mit den Viren in Kontakt kommen.  

Mpox breitet sich immer weiter aus. Forscher sind besorgt. © BSIP/IMAGO

Nach Angaben der US-Gesundheitsbehörde CDC sind mittlerweile 24 afrikanische Länder von Mpox-Ausbrüchen betroffen – fast doppelt so viele wie noch vor einem Jahr. Aus diesem Grund fordern Wissenschaftler nun deutlich strengere Maßnahmen auf globaler Ebene, so die WHO. Auch im Magazin Nature Medicine erklärten britische Forscher, dass man Hinweise hätte, die auf ein hohes Epidemie- oder Pandemierisiko hindeuten. Das Virus verursache immer mehr mehrere unabhängige Ausbrüche unterschiedlicher Varianten.  

Rasche Ausbreitung von Mpox gilt als „besorgniserregend“

Ein Team von internationalen Forschern verfolgt die Entwicklung von Mpox in der Demokratischen Republik Kongo (DRK). Dabei steht die schnelle und stetige Entwicklung der Pockenviren im Fokus der Forschungen, berichtet scitechdaily.com. Forscher Dr. Jason Kindrachuk bezeichnet diesen Punkt als „besorgniserregend“, denn die Verbreitung der Krankheit verändere sich, heißt es weiter. Die Problematik bestehe darin, dass Mpox zunächst überwiegend in ländlichen Gebieten auftrat.

Doch mittlerweile ist das Pockenvirus auch in städtischen Regionen zu finden. Eine Studie, welche auf thelancet.com veröffentlicht wurde, zeigt außerdem eine signifikante Veränderung bei der Ausbreitung und Schwere der Krankheit. Die Studienergebnisse zeigen, dass in Süd-Kivu der Verlauf deutlich schwächer ablief. Dies könnte darauf hindeuten, dass sich das Virus möglicherweise verändert hat oder sich verändert. Man fürchtet derzeit eine unaufhaltsame Ausbreitung von Mpox.   

Mpox-Virus: Historie, Ansteckung, Ausbreitung, Symptome, Impfschutz

Fotostrecke ansehen

Gefahr Mpox wächst: Übertragungswege verändern sich – Immer mehr Erkrankte

Die Forscher beobachten in ihrer Studie auch, dass sich die Form der Übertragung verändert. Bis zum Jahr 2023 übertrugen sich die meisten Mpox-Viren von Wildtieren direkt auf den Menschen. Besonders häufig kam es zu Infektionen nach dem Kontakt mit Nagetieren, meistens handelte es sich dabei um die Untergruppe „Ia“ des Mpox-Virus. Betroffen waren vor allem Kinder unter 15 Jahren. Die auf TheLancet veröffentlichte Studie zeigt jetzt aber, dass eine neue Variante, die Subgruppe „lb“, aufkommt. Diese Mpox-Variante überträgt sich von Mensch zu Mensch. Auch in Europa gab es bereits Mpox-Fälle.  

Außerdem zeigt sich ein Anstieg von Infizierten in der Altersgruppe der 15- bis 34-Jährigen, heißt es. Die Forscher erklären, dass sich viele Betroffene bei sexueller Aktivität ansteckten. Zudem stellten die Wissenschaftler fest, dass die infizierten Erwachsenen sowohl Haut- als auch Genitalverletzungen zeigten. Zusätzlich gaben die Patienten an, dass sie in der Sexarbeit tätig seien. So ließe dies den Rückschluss zu, dass bei sexuellen Aktivitäten eine Wahrscheinlichkeit der Übertragung hoch sei, so die Studie. (lu)

OFW remittances hit 6-month high in June

 

Keisha Ta-Asan - The Philippine Star 

August 16, 2025 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Money sent home by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) climbed to its highest level in six months in June, boosted by steady demand for Filipino labor abroad and seasonal household spending needs.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that cash remittances rose by 3.7 percent to $2.99 billion in June from $2.88 billion in the same month last year.

“Cash remittances to the Philippines continued to grow in June of this year, with remittances from land-based overseas Filipinos increasing faster than funds from sea-based overseas Filipinos,” the central bank said.

Land-based workers sent $2.43 billion during the month, growing faster at 3.7 percent year-on-year compared to the 3.5-percent increase from sea-based workers, which totaled $555 million.

For the first half, cumulative cash remittances rose by 3.1 percent to $16.75 billion from $16.25 billion a year ago.

Personal remittances, which include both formal and informal channels as well as remittances in kind, grew by 3.7 percent to $3.33 billion in June. This brought total personal remittances to $18.67 billion in the first semester, 3.1 percent higher than a year ago.

Philippine Institute for Development Studies senior research fellow John Paolo Rivera said the uptick reflects continued strong demand for Filipino workers abroad, especially in health care, construction as well as services in the United States, Middle East and Asia.

“Seasonality, particularly mid-year education and household expenses, also likely contributed,” Rivera said.

The BSP said the growth in cash remittances from the US, Singapore and Saudi Arabia mainly contributed to the increase in remittances in the first half.

In terms of country sources, the US posted the highest share of overall remittances during the period with 40.1 percent, followed by Singapore (7.1 percent), Saudi Arabia (6.2 percent), Japan (five percent) and the United Kingdom (4.9 percent).

However, Rivera said risks remain in the second half.

He cited global economic uncertainties, currency volatility and potential policy shifts such as the proposed US remittance tax that could temper inflows.

Likewise, geopolitical tensions and rising costs of living in host countries may also affect the sending capacity of OFWs.

The BSP sees cash remittances increasing by 2.8 percent this year and by three percent next year.

My happy place

 Since I fell in my gardens. Broke my wrist in 2 places hurt my back. After all that has happened. This is my happy place

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