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Triathlon to imbibe Olympic spirit draws 500 young athletes
Rtv news
27 Aug 2024, 19:33
Photo: Chinadaily
As part of the 15th Beijing Olympics City Sports and Cultural Festival, a triathlon designed for youngsters kicked off in Changping district on Sunday.
The event fully considers the physical characteristics of teenagers of different age groups and has set up different competition categories according to their age, namely U9, U12 and U15.
In the U9 category, participants are required to finish a 300m swim, a 6.4km bike ride and a 1.6km run. For the U12 and U15 groups, the challenge includes a 300m swim, an 8km bike ride and a 1.6km run.
Source: CD
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Merry Christmas / History, Traditions, Significance and Celebrations
Christmas, celebrated annually on December 25, is one of the most beloved holidays worldwide. It marks the birth of Jesus Christ, a central figure in Christianity, and is a time of joy, love, and togetherness. From its historical roots to modern-day traditions, Christmas has evolved into a universal celebration that transcends religious boundaries.
Why December 25
The choice of December 25 to celebrate the birth of Jesus has both religious and historical significance. Although the Bible does not specify the exact date of Christ's birth, early Christians chose this date to align with existing pagan festivals like Saturnalia and Sol Invictus.
These celebrations honoured the winter solstice, symbolising the return of light and hope—an apt metaphor for the birth of Christ.
In 336 AD, the Roman Emperor Constantine officially recognised December 25 as Christmas Day, cementing its place in the Christian calendar.
History
The history of Christmas dates back to early Christianity, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25. This date was chosen to align with existing pagan festivals like Saturnalia and Yule, marking the winter solstice.
Over time, traditions such as gift-giving, feasts, and decorating trees merged with Christian beliefs. The holiday gained prominence in the Middle Ages and evolved further in modern times, influenced by figures like Saint Nicholas, who inspired Santa Claus. Today, Christmas is celebrated globally, blending religious observances with cultural festivities.
Traditions
Decorating the Christmas Tree: A symbol of life and hope, this tradition traces back to Germany
Exchanging Gifts: Reflecting the spirit of giving and inspired by the Magi
Santa Claus: Based on St. Nicholas, a 4th-century saint known for his generosity
Feasting: Families gather to share festive meals, from roast dinners to sweet treats
Religious Services: Christians attend Midnight Mass or other church services to honour the Nativity
Significance of Christmas
Christmas holds deep significance as it commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, a central figure in Christianity.
The festival symbolises faith, love, and hope, inspiring acts of kindness and generosity. It also emphasises unity, bringing families and communities together through traditions like sharing meals, exchanging gifts, and attending religious services.
Beyond its religious importance, Christmas has become a global cultural phenomenon, promoting universal themes of peace and goodwill. The holiday's traditions and values continue to resonate across diverse cultures and beliefs.
Celebrations
Christmas celebrated annually on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ and has become a cherished cultural and religious holiday worldwide. In 2024, the festivities fall on Wednesday, bringing families and communities together to revel in the spirit of generosity, kindness and togetherness.
Modern Day Christmas
Today, Christmas has grown into a global celebration that transcends religious boundaries. From dazzling lights and festive markets to charitable acts and family gatherings, the holiday continues to inspire joy and goodwill.
Christmas on December 25 holds deep historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. Whether you celebrate for religious reasons or simply embrace the festive spirit, the holiday is a timeless reminder of the power of love, hope, and togetherness. As the season of joy and love unfolds, Christmas 2024 promises a heartwarming celebration, uniting faith, culture, and the enduring message of hope and peace.
Christmas Day Today, Being Celebrated Across Bangladesh
Today is Christmas Day, marking the birth of Jesus Christ, a Jewish preacher and religious leader of the first century. The Day is being celebrated today (December 25) with festivity across the country as elsewhere in the world.
Christmas, the biggest religious festival of the Christian community, is the celebration of rebirth, new beginning, forgiveness and peace, and renewing relationship with God and human beings.
The Christians of different groups is celebrating the festival amid festivity and religious fervour by offering special prayers, illuminating churches, installing makeshift Christmas trees at homes and places of worship and missions.
Elderly people of the community, attired in the outfit of Santa Clause, usually make fun with children and distribute gifts among kids as part of a universal Christian practice.
The day is a public holiday.
In separate messages, President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus greeted members of the Christian community on the occasion.
They wished peace, welfare, and prosperity to all citizens, including Christians, of the country.
President Shahabuddin, in his message, said Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony as people of all religions have been practicing their religions and rituals independently in this country for long.
He urged all to work together to build a happy, prosperous, and non-communal Bangladesh.
About Jesus Christ's contribution to society, the President said Jesus taught people to be in a peaceful position with love, compassion, forgiveness, affection, empathy, and the establishment of justice.
"Instead of earthly life, Jesus Christ put emphasis on the importance of spiritual happiness through renunciation, restraint, and charity," Shahabuddin said.
The President thought that the teachings and ideals of Jesus Christ are very relevant in establishing peace and harmony in a trouble-torn world apart from establishing harmony and unity among nations.
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, in his message, hoped that Christmas will further strengthen the existing camaraderie and harmony between Christians and other communities in the country.
For thousands of years, he said, people of all religions, regardless of race, religion, or caste, have lived together in harmony in this country. People of all religions and communities have ultimate freedom to practice their own religion here.
Professor Muhammad Yunus said Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem on this day, and one of his vows was to establish a society free from exploitation by establishing justice and peace in the world.
The great Jesus, he mentioned, sacrificed himself for the poor and starving people, while his ideal lifestyle and strict characteristics still remain immortal in human history.
Greeting the countrymen, especially the Christians, on this occasion, the Chief Adviser wished all citizens' peace, welfare, and prosperity.
On the holy day, churches in the capital will be illuminated while Christmas trees will be set up and candles lit at abodes and churches by the Christian community to celebrate the event amid religious fervor.
According to the tradition, Santa Clause distributes sweets and gifts among children in churches on the occasion.
This is a 'great day' for children in the Christian community, who sing carols on the occasion in praise of Jesus Christ and God and exchange gifts.
The national dailies published special articles highlighting the importance of the Christmas.
Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar and private radio stations and TV channels aired special programmes marking the festival.
10 Morning Habits Parents Should Follow to Set a Good Example for Kids
A healthy morning routine sets the tone for the entire day, and for parents, it's an opportunity to lead by example. Kids often mimic their parent's behaviour, making the morning hours a perfect time to instil positive habits. Here are 10-morning habits every parent should adopt to inspire their children:
1. Wake Up Early
Starting the day early gives parents time to prepare and approach the morning calmly. This teaches kids the value of being proactive and organized.
2. Make the Bed
A small yet impactful habit, making the bed demonstrates discipline and creates a sense of accomplishment right at the start.
3. Practice Gratitude
Taking a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for sets a positive tone for the day. Share this practice with kids to cultivate a grateful mindset.
4. Eat a Healthy Breakfast Together
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Preparing and enjoying a nutritious breakfast together teaches kids the importance of balanced nutrition.
5. Avoid Screen Time
Model mindful habits by limiting phone or TV use in the morning. Encourage conversation, reading, or other productive activities.
6. Exercise or Stretch
Incorporate light exercises or stretches into your morning routine. Active parents inspire kids to stay physically fit and understand the importance of movement.
7. Plan the Day
Share your daily schedule with your kids and encourage them to do the same. This habit fosters time management and organizational skills.
8. Practice Self-Care
Show your children that taking time for personal hygiene and grooming is essential for self-respect and confidence.
9. Maintain a Positive Attitude
Even on busy mornings, staying calm and cheerful helps create a stress-free environment that kids will learn to emulate.
10. Read or Learn Something New
Spend a few minutes reading or engaging in a learning activity. When kids see their parents valuing knowledge, they’re likely to develop a similar mindset.
New Year's Food Traditions Around the World
As the new year dawns, people across the globe celebrate with unique rituals and foods, each believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and happiness for the year ahead. These culinary traditions are rich in symbolism and reflect the diverse cultures and beliefs of different countries. Here's a look at some of the foods consumed at the start of the new year in various parts of the world:
Spain: Twelve Grapes
In Spain, people eat 12 grapes at midnight, one for each stroke of the clock. Each grape represents a month of the coming year, and they believe that eating them will bring good fortune and prosperity.
Japan: Soba Noodles
On New Year's Eve, the Japanese enjoy a bowl of Toshikoshi Soba, a long noodle dish. The noodles symbolize longevity and stability, wishing for a long and prosperous year.
United States (Southern Tradition): Hoppin' John
A major New Year's food tradition in the American South, Hoppin' John is a dish of pork-flavoured field peas or black-eyed peas (symbolizing coins) and rice, frequently served with collards or other cooked greens (as they're the colour of money) and cornbread (the colour of gold). The dish is said to bring good luck in the new year.
Different folklore traces the history and the name of this meal, but the current dish has its roots in African and West Indian traditions and was most likely brought over by slaves to North America. A recipe for Hoppin' John appears as early as 1847 in Sarah Rutledge's ''The Carolina Housewife'' and has been reinterpreted over the centuries by home and professional chefs.
The dish reportedly got its name in Charleston, South Carolina, and it is a veritable staple of Lowcountry cooking.
Philippines: Round Fruits
In the Philippines, round fruits such as oranges and grapes are eaten on New Year's Day. The round shape is associated with coins, symbolizing financial prosperity for the year ahead.
Italy: Lentils and Sausages
Italians traditionally enjoy lentils on New Year's Day because their shape resembles coins, representing financial success. Sausages are also consumed as a symbol of good health.
China: Dumplings and Fish
In China, dumplings are a must for the New Year celebration, as they symbolize good luck. Fish is also eaten, symbolizing wealth and prosperity.
Brazil: Beverages
In Brazil, influenced by European customs, people eat 12 grapes or pomegranate seeds with the 12 chimes of the new year, similar to Spanish and Portuguese traditions. Additionally, rice and beans are common on the dining table. The idea is that rice and beans symbolize economic progress.
In the evening, people gather to drink cocktails made from various fruit juices while dancing the samba on the beach.
Greece: Vasilopita Cake
In Greece, Vasilopita, a cake with a hidden coin, is served. The person who finds the coin is believed to be blessed with good fortune for the year.
South Korea: Tteokguk Soup
In Korea, families gather to enjoy Tteokguk, a soup made with rice cakes, meat, eggs, seaweed, and vegetables. Eating the soup is believed to bring a year of health and prosperity.
Germany: Pig's Feet and Lemon Rings
In Germany, people eat pig's feet, symbolizing good luck, and lemon rings, which represent the continuity of life. "Sugar pigs" made of sugar and almonds are also a festive treat.
Mexico: Tamales
Mexicans celebrate the new year with tamales, a traditional dish wrapped in corn husks filled with meats, cheese, and other ingredients. Rosca de Reyes, a cake with fruit preserves and powdered sugar, is another popular food for the occasion.
Argentina: Beans
In Argentina, beans are a significant part of the New Year's meal. They represent prosperity, as beans are an important crop, and eating them is thought to bring financial success.
Netherlands: Oliebollen
In the Netherlands, fried oil balls, or Oliebollen, are sold by street carts and are traditionally consumed on New Year's Eve and at special celebratory fairs. They are doughnut-like dumplings, made by dropping a scoop of dough spiked with currants or raisins into a deep fryer and then dusted with powdered sugar.
In Amsterdam, be on the lookout for Oliebollenkraams, little temporary shacks or trailers on the street selling packets of hot fried Oliebollen.
Poland and Scandinavia: Pickled Herring
Because herring is in abundance in Poland and parts of Scandinavia and because of their silver colouring, many in those nations eat pickled herring at the stroke of midnight to bring a year of prosperity and bounty.
Some eat pickled herring in cream sauce while others have it with onions.
One special Polish New Year's Eve preparation of pickled herring, called Sledzie Marynowane, is made by soaking whole salt herrings in water for 24 hours and then layering them in a jar with onions, allspice, sugar and white vinegar.
Scandinavians will often include herring in a larger midnight smorgasbord with smoked and pickled fish, pate and meatballs.
Denmark and Norway: Kransekage
Kransekage, or wreath cake, is a cake tower composed of many concentric rings of cake layered atop one another, and they are made for New Year's Eve and other special occasions in Denmark and Norway.
The cake is made using marzipan, often with a bottle of wine or Aquavit in the centre and can be decorated with ornaments, flags and crackers.
Around the globe: King Cake
The tradition of a New Year's cake spans countless cultures. The Greeks have the Vasilopita, the French the gateau or galette des rois. Mexicans have the Rosca de Reyes and Bulgarians enjoy the banitsa.
Most of the cakes are consumed at midnight on New Year's Eve – though some cultures cut their cake on Christmas or the Epiphany, January 6 – and include a hidden gold coin or figure, which symbolizes a prosperous year for whoever finds it in their slice.
These diverse food traditions reflect the values and customs of each country, uniting families and communities in celebration while symbolizing hope for a prosperous year ahead.
There's No Need to Shower Every Day – Here's Why
Is washing ourselves very frequently necessary? Some experts believe that everyday showering is based more on a "social contract" than actual need.
According to most dermatologists, for most people, showering daily is not necessary and can even be considered unhealthy as it can strip away the skin's natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation; showering less frequently is generally considered healthier unless you have specific needs like heavy sweating or a skin condition that requires more frequent cleaning.
Key points to consider:
Skin health:
Frequent showering can dry out your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin, so showering less often can be better for overall skin health.
Environmental impact:
Showering less frequently conserves water, which is beneficial for the environment.
Individual needs:
People with oily skin or those who exercise heavily may need to shower more often.
5 Superfoods That Prevent Kidney Damage
As temperatures drop in winter, our bodies undergo metabolic shifts that can put extra strain on the kidneys. These vital organs work tirelessly to filter toxins and maintain fluid balance. To support kidney function and prevent damage during the colder months, incorporating kidney-friendly superfoods into your diet is essential—especially when consumed at night. Here are five powerful foods that help protect your kidneys:
1. Beetroot
Beetroot is packed with antioxidants and nitrates, which naturally lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Its high fibre content aids digestion, detoxifies the body, and supports kidney cleansing. Add beetroot to winter salads or soups to take advantage of its circulation-boosting and detoxifying properties.
2. Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, fibre, and potassium. These nutrients help regulate blood sugar levels and blood pressure—both crucial for maintaining healthy kidney function. Their nutrient profile makes sweet potatoes an excellent choice for stabilizing blood glucose and reducing the risk of kidney disease.
3. Spinach
Spinach Loaded with iron, magnesium, and antioxidants, spinach supports kidney health. However, due to its oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid the risk of kidney stones. Enjoy spinach in controlled portions to benefit from its nutrient-rich profile while protecting your kidneys.
4. Garlic
Garlic is not only a flavorful addition to meals but also a powerful kidney protector. It contains allicin, an anti-inflammatory compound that helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Incorporating garlic into your diet can enhance both the taste and health benefits of your meals, providing natural kidney support.
5. Cranberries
Cranberries are well-known for preventing urinary tract infections by stopping harmful bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract, offering protection for the kidneys. Rich in antioxidants, cranberries help combat oxidative stress and prevent kidney damage. Drinking cranberry juice or adding fruit to your diet is a delicious and effective way to support kidney health.
Including these superfoods in your winter diet can help protect your kidneys, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being.
Diabetes, Here's What Happens to Body If You Skip Breakfast
While skipping breakfast has become a trend due to busy schedules or fasting practices, people with diabetes must understand the potential effects of missing this important meal.
Breakfast plays a significant role in regulating blood sugar levels and supporting overall health, and skipping it can cause a range of negative physical and psychological consequences.
Kanikka Malhotra, a consultant dietician and diabetes educator, highlights the critical nature of breakfast for diabetes management, noting that its absence can create a series of challenges:
1. Blood Sugar Imbalance Missing breakfast can disrupt blood sugar control, leading to higher blood sugar levels later in the day. After fasting overnight, the body may respond more aggressively to meals, causing spikes in blood sugar, particularly after lunch or dinner. Over time, this leads to greater fluctuations in blood sugar levels, making it harder to stabilize glucose and increasing the risk of complications.
2. Increased Insulin Resistance Insulin resistance, a core factor in type 2 diabetes, makes it more difficult for the body to process glucose effectively. Skipping breakfast can worsen insulin resistance, complicating efforts to manage blood sugar. This can accelerate the progression of diabetes and increase the risk of cardiovascular issues.
3. Long-Term Health Risks Consistently missing breakfast can have long-term health effects, such as:
Accelerated onset of type 2 diabetes in prediabetic individuals.
Organ damage, including neuropathy (nerve damage), nephropathy (kidney damage), and retinopathy (vision impairment), due to prolonged high blood sugar levels.
4. Nutritional and Metabolic Imbalances Breakfast provides key nutrients like fibre, protein, and healthy fats, which help stabilize blood sugar. Without it, people are more likely to overeat or make poor food choices later in the day, leading to metabolic disruption, potential weight gain, and increased risk of complications.
5. Psychological and Cognitive Effects The effects of skipping breakfast extend beyond the physical. Missing this meal can lead to:
Increased hunger, may result in overeating or poor food choices.
Mood swings and irritability due to unstable blood sugar.
Difficulty concentrating and reduced productivity due to a lack of consistent energy.
Healthy Breakfast Tips for Diabetics
To support better blood sugar control, individuals with diabetes should prioritize a balanced breakfast that includes:
Low glycemic index (GI) carbohydrates, like whole grains or oats, provide steady energy.
Lean proteins, such as eggs, Greek yoghurt, or tofu, help stabilize blood sugar.
Healthy fats, including avocado, nuts, or seeds, provide sustained energy.
Fibre-rich foods, such as vegetables or chia seeds, aid digestion and promote satiety.
It is best to avoid processed or sugary foods that can cause rapid blood sugar spikes and disrupt metabolic function. By making mindful breakfast choices, diabetics can better manage their blood sugar levels and support overall health.
Source: TIE
