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The Quiet Loss of an Old Habit Can a Head Massage Soothe the Modern Mind

 I am 45 now, and as the winter chill settles in, a simple act—oiling my head after a shower—triggered a cascade of memories spanning three decades. When I was a boy in a small town in Uttar Pradesh, the ritual of a weekly, sometimes daily, head massage with oil was as common as breathing. My favorite was the potent, earthy scent of mustard oil . I remember visiting our local vaid ji (traditional practitioner), who stressed the importance of this practice, lamenting even then that fewer people were keeping it up. Fast forward to adulthood, and my simple habit met the sharp reality of changing cultural norms. My wife, from a different background, and her circle found the idea of oiled hair "un-stylish." Even when I switched to the fragrant, dark luster of amla oil, the gentle teasing and continuous pressure to conform chipped away at my resolve. Now, my cherished ritual is relegated to an occasional, quick application, washed out within hours. Where Did the Oil Go? As I drov...
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The Impact of Playing Mobile Games: A Focus on PUBG

 PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) became a sensation in India, drawing millions of players and sparking both admiration and controversy. The game's immense popularity even led to a government ban due to concerns about its impact on players, particularly the youth. The effects of playing mobile games like PUBG are multifaceted, encompassing both potential benefits and drawbacks.

Positive Effects of Playing Mobile Games

  1. Cognitive Benefits

    • Enhanced Reflexes: Fast-paced games like PUBG can improve reaction times and hand-eye coordination.
    • Strategic Thinking: Players develop strategic planning skills, learning to make quick decisions and adapt to changing scenarios.
    • Problem-Solving: The challenges in the game require players to think critically and solve problems efficiently.

  2. Social Interaction

    • Teamwork and Collaboration: Multiplayer games encourage teamwork and communication as players must collaborate to achieve common goals.
    • Global Connectivity: Players can connect with others from around the world, fostering global friendships and cultural exchange.

  3. Entertainment and Stress Relief

    • Relaxation: Playing games can be a fun way to unwind and relieve stress after a long day.
    • Entertainment: Mobile games provide a source of entertainment, especially important during times like the COVID-19 lockdowns.

  4. Skill Development

    • Focus and Concentration: Maintaining attention during gameplay can enhance focus and concentration in other areas of life.
    • Multitasking: Players often juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, which can improve multitasking abilities.

Negative Effects of Playing Mobile Games

  1. Addiction and Time Management

    • Excessive Play: Mobile games can be highly addictive, leading to excessive playtime and neglect of responsibilities such as studies or work.
    • Time Management Issues: Players might struggle to balance game time with other important activities, impacting productivity.

  2. Physical Health Concerns

    • Sedentary Lifestyle: Prolonged periods of sitting and playing can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of obesity and related health issues.
    • Eye Strain: Extended screen time can cause eye strain, headaches, and other vision-related problems.

  3. Mental Health Impacts

    • Stress and Anxiety: Intense and competitive gaming can lead to increased stress and anxiety levels.
    • Social Isolation: Excessive gaming may lead to social isolation, with players spending more time in virtual worlds than engaging in real-life interactions.

  4. Aggressive Behavior

    • Violence Exposure: Games like PUBG involve violent content, which some studies suggest can lead to increased aggression and desensitization to violence.

  5. Financial Implications

    • In-App Purchases: Many games offer in-app purchases, leading to potential financial strain if players spend excessively on game enhancements.

Balanced Perspective: Benefits vs. Drawbacks

The key to maximizing the benefits and minimizing the drawbacks of playing mobile games lies in moderation and self-regulation. Here are some strategies for achieving a balanced approach:

  1. Set Time Limits: Establishing daily or weekly time limits for gaming can help prevent excessive play and ensure a healthy balance with other activities.
  2. Encourage Breaks: Taking regular breaks during gaming sessions can reduce physical and mental strain.
  3. Promote Physical Activity: Balancing gaming with physical exercise can mitigate the health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle.
  4. Foster Real-Life Interactions: Encouraging social activities outside of gaming can help maintain healthy relationships and social skills.
  5. Parental Supervision: For younger players, parental supervision and guidance can help manage gaming habits and ensure age-appropriate content.

Conclusion

Playing mobile games like PUBG offers a mix of cognitive, social, and entertainment benefits, but also poses significant risks related to addiction, physical and mental health, and social isolation. Striking a balance through moderation, self-regulation, and awareness is essential for harnessing the positive aspects while mitigating the negative impacts. As with many aspects of modern life, the key lies in finding a healthy equilibrium.

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