Category Archives: personal development

Marie Kondo, Tidying Expert, Shares Her Travel and Packing Tips

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The tidying expert has just published a new book about travel’s impact on her life.

In it, she shares valuable tips on how to truly encounter the world during your journeys.

More importantly, she offers practical advice on how to leave each place a little better after your visit.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone planning their first trip, her insights can help make your experiences more meaningful and respectful.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/21/travel/marie-kondo-travel-packing-tips.html

Mercury in Libra: Is Your Sign Ready For The Diplomatic Shift?

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Mercury Enters Libra on October 3, 2025: A Time for Connection, Balance, and Harmonious Communication

As the celestial messenger, Mercury, shifts from the intellectual and analytical sign of Virgo into the harmonious and diplomatic sign of Libra on October 3, 2025, our collective focus will naturally turn toward connection, communication, and balance. This transit, lasting until October 24, 2025, marks a profound period for re-evaluating our relationships, resolving conflicts, and seeking fairness in all our dealings.

Mercury in Libra encourages us to think and speak with grace. The quick-witted, sometimes critical energy of Mercury in Virgo gives way to a more thoughtful, nuanced approach. Debates may become less about being ‘right’ and more about finding common ground. It’s a prime time for negotiation, mediation, and engaging in conversations that build bridges rather than burn them.

This transit highlights the importance of active listening and seeing multiple perspectives. However, be mindful of Libra’s tendency towards indecision and people-pleasing. While seeking harmony is positive, don’t sacrifice your own needs or truth for the sake of avoiding conflict.

Overall, this transit will shift our collective mindset from the meticulous analysis of Virgo to a more diplomatic and people-focused approach. Our conversations will become more thoughtful, and our focus will turn to finding common ground, resolving conflicts, and enhancing social connections. It’s a time to beautify not just our surroundings but also our interactions.

How Mercury in Libra Will Influence Each Zodiac Sign

Aries

For Aries, this transit lights up your 7th house of partnerships and relationships. Your usual direct communication style may soften, making it easier to compromise. This is an excellent time to talk through any unresolved issues with your partner, business associates, or close friends. You may find yourself playing the role of a mediator.

Taurus

Mercury in Libra moves through your 6th house of work and daily routines. This transit helps you bring more balance and cooperation to your workplace. You might find a new rhythm with your colleagues, or a new project may require teamwork and negotiation. It’s also a great time to focus on your health and wellness routines, seeking a harmonious balance between work and rest.

Gemini

This transit is particularly vibrant for you, Gemini, as Mercury is your ruling planet. It energizes your 5th house of creativity, romance, and self-expression. Communication with a romantic partner or children will be more fun and playful. You’ll feel a strong urge to express your creative ideas and may be drawn to artistic pursuits like writing, painting, or music.

Cancer

Mercury’s shift into Libra affects your 4th house of home and family. Communication with family members will be a key theme. This is a good time to redecorate, host gatherings, or simply have important, heart-to-heart conversations with loved ones. You’ll be seeking to create a more peaceful and aesthetically pleasing environment at home.

Leo

The transit lights up your 3rd house of communication and local community. Your words will carry more charm and influence, making this an ideal period for networking, public speaking, or a short trip. You may find yourself connecting with siblings or neighbors, and a sense of harmony in your immediate environment will be important to you.

Virgo

As Mercury leaves your sign, it enters your 2nd house of finances and values. This transit prompts you to think about how you earn and spend money. You’ll be more inclined to seek financial balance and make practical, well-thought-out decisions. It’s also a time to reflect on what you truly value in life and how you can align your resources with those values.

Libra

With Mercury in your 1st house of self and identity, this is your time to shine. Your communication skills are heightened, and you’ll present yourself with greater poise and intellect. This is an excellent period for starting new projects, expressing your opinions, and making a lasting impression on others. Your ability to think clearly and articulate your ideas will be at an all-time high.

Scorpio

Mercury in Libra moves into your 12th house of the subconscious and spirituality. This is a time for introspection and private reflection. You might be more reserved in your communication, preferring to think things through before speaking. Pay attention to your dreams and intuition, as they may reveal insights. This transit is a reminder to seek internal peace before engaging with the outside world.

Sagittarius

This transit activates your 11th house of friendships and social networks. Your social calendar may fill up as you seek to connect with friends and groups. You’ll enjoy engaging in stimulating conversations and collaborating on group projects. This is a great time to resolve any conflicts within your social circle and to build stronger, more harmonious connections.

Capricorn

Mercury in Libra influences your 10th house of career and public image. This is a favorable time to network professionally and negotiate with superiors. Your communication will be more diplomatic, helping you navigate complex work situations with ease. Expect to be more focused on your long-term career goals.

Aquarius

The transit in Libra energizes your 9th house of higher learning and travel. You’ll be drawn to new ideas, philosophies, and cultures. This is a great time for academic pursuits, taking a class, or planning a trip. You’ll enjoy engaging in thought-provoking conversations that expand your horizons and help you see the world from a different perspective.

Pisces

Mercury in Libra moves through your 8th house of shared resources and transformation. This transit can bring important discussions about joint finances, debts, or inheritances. It may also lead to conversations about deep, emotional bonds. This period encourages honest and open communication to foster trust and intimacy in your most significant relationships.

Ashish Mehta is an Astro Vastu Consultant, Author, Speaker, and Vedic Life Coach.

https://www.freepressjournal.in/horoscope/mercury-in-libra-is-your-sign-ready-for-the-diplomatic-shift

In a world of toxic masculinity, this is how I’m raising my sons to be good men

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Mental-health advocate Blake Johnston is known for holding the world record for the longest continuous surf, which he achieved in 2023 to raise awareness and money for charity. Here, the 43-year-old talks about how he and his wife Lauren are raising their two boys, and how his father’s battle with mental illness has informed his life.

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My maternal grandmother, Bessie, loved her cigarettes. She was sweet and very good to my grandfather, Ian. She adored him, and that was special to see. My mum, Sandy, was pretty close to her.

My dad, Wayne, was a builder who renovated houses, so we moved around a lot. When I was a baby, we lived with my grandparents for a while in Cronulla, Sydney, where I grew up. Nan was always cooking and provided a comforting home for us.

I’m a lot like Mum in that I’m sensitive and empathetic. She’s very loving and selfless. We didn’t have a lot when I was growing up, but Mum always made my four brothers and me feel so loved and special.

I was 31 when Dad committed suicide. He had a medical condition that severely affected his mental health. Mum’s gone through every emotion since — anger, loneliness, and isolation. Family is everything to her.

After Dad’s death, my older brother, Ben, and I drifted apart. Mum’s grief will never disappear, but she knows all five of her sons love her.

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I had a few relationships in school, but I wasn’t that interested for the first two decades of my life; I was dedicated to surfing. I first went on a surfboard with Dad when I was four.

When I was around 13, Layne Beachley, who later became a seven-time world champion, and I crossed paths at a Quiksilver training camp. The camp was physically demanding, but Layne was killing it. She was one of only two girls present but had this determination and focus that obviously paid off.

My first celebrity crush was Cameron Diaz. I remember seeing her in the 1998 movie *There’s Something About Mary*. Her smile lit up a room.

I went to the Year 10 formal with Chantelle, a girl I had a crush on. She never liked me back; rather, it was convenient for her.

My first serious relationship was at 17, when I met Laura at the beach. She was finishing high school and was so easy-going. I spoiled her with gifts and took her to Hawaii. She wanted to go to London after graduating, and our breakup was tough.

I was 19 when I met Ash. Her family was involved in the local surf scene. Ash had just finished Year 12, and we spent a year together. She wanted to focus on her career and again my heart was broken.

From that point on, I spent more time with my mates. I wasn’t looking for a relationship when Lauren, who’s now my wife, showed up.

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Lauren was finishing a marketing degree and preparing for a corporate career. She was petite, blonde, and full of positive energy — my dream girl. We got along so well and respected each other. I fell in love pretty quickly.

I constantly do things that show Lauren I love her. I buy flowers and make sure she knows how appreciated and awesome she is.

Lauren is an outstanding mum to our boys, Bobby, 13, and Duke, 10.

With social media and the rise of toxic masculinity, it’s a difficult time for boys and young men regarding how to treat women. It’s not a sit-down lesson; it’s how I consistently treat Lauren.

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In 2023, I set the world record for the longest continuous surf and raised $500,000 for mental health charities. Being in the water for 40 hours, I felt both elated and frustrated. But there were dark times, too, as I reflected on my whole life — what happened with my dad, and not making it as a pro surfer.

Lauren was with me the whole way. She continued to run our surf school and hardly slept. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but upon exiting the water, my beautiful wife was the first person I saw. To see her there was so powerful.

Without Lauren, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.

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*Swellbeing* (Hachette Australia) by Blake Johnston is out September 30.
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/lifestyle/life-and-relationships/in-a-world-of-toxic-masculinity-this-is-how-i-m-raising-my-sons-to-be-good-men-20250901-p5mre4.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed

The September 21 Edition

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In our cover story this week, actor Pallavi Sharda opens up about her journey from Australia to Bollywood, what inspired her return home, and the important mission she pursues through film and life.

In her 20s, Pallavi Sharda conquered Bollywood. Now, she’s home in Perth and on a mission. The Perth-born actor is keen to take on roles that align with her goal of making women like herself feel seen.

*September 18, 2025*
*By Kate Halfpenny*

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**Five minutes, no heartbeat: How nearly dying changed how Emily chooses to live**

What happens when we die? While the ultimate answers may elude us, a near-death experience can offer profound insights.

*September 18, 2025*
*By Shona Hendley*

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**Opinion**

**This photo with my baby used to scream failure. Now, I am viewing it differently.**

For years, I resisted being one of those bed-sharing parents. But a recent change in my daughter has made me reconsider.

*4 minutes ago*
*By Melissa Singer*

—

**Save articles for later**
Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime.
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/lifestyle/life-and-relationships/the-september-21-edition-20250918-p5mw84.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed

‘Stranger Things’ and the power of unbreakable bonds

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**‘Stranger Things’ and the Power of Unbreakable Bonds**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 18, 2025, 05:08 PM*

**What’s the story?**

*Stranger Things* has won our hearts with its intense storyline and nostalgic vibe. Beyond its thrilling otherworldly elements, the series beautifully captures the essence of friendship. It portrays how friendships evolve, face challenges, and ultimately help us navigate life’s darkest moments. By examining these aspects, viewers can learn valuable lessons on keeping their friends close.

**1. The Power of Shared Experiences**

In *Stranger Things*, shared experiences play a crucial role in strengthening friendships. The characters often find themselves in bizarre, extraordinary situations that require trust and teamwork. These adventures leave a lasting impact on them, forging deeper bonds. Similarly, in real life, friends who go through significant experiences together tend to grow closer over time.

**2. Navigating Conflicts and Differences**

The series also highlights how friends handle conflicts and differences. Characters frequently disagree or misunderstand each other but manage to resolve issues through open conversations and compromise. This realistic portrayal emphasizes that disagreements are natural in any relationship but, when met with patience and understanding, can enhance the strength of friendships.

**3. Support During Difficult Times**

Unwavering support during challenging moments is another central theme in *Stranger Things*. Whether facing personal struggles or external threats, the characters consistently stand by one another. This kind of unconditional emotional backing underscores the importance of having friends who are there for you no matter what, reminding us that true friendship shines brightest in adversity.

**4. Embracing Individuality Within Group Dynamics**

The show celebrates individuality within the group. Each character contributes unique strengths and perspectives, creating a diverse yet harmonious team. This mirrors real-life friendships, where valuing individual differences enriches group interactions. Such an environment fosters a sense of belonging and encourages everyone to feel appreciated while working towards common goals.

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*Stranger Things* teaches us that friendships are a blend of shared adventures, honest communication, steadfast support, and acceptance of individuality—ingredients that make bonds unbreakable.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/what-stranger-things-gets-right-about-friendship-dynamics/story

‘Stranger Things’ and the power of unbreakable bonds

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**‘Stranger Things’ and the Power of Unbreakable Bonds**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 18, 2025, 05:08 PM*

*What’s the story?*
*Stranger Things* has won our hearts with its intense storyline and nostalgic vibe. Beyond its supernatural elements, the series beautifully captures the essence of friendship. It shows how friendships evolve, get tested, and ultimately help us navigate through life’s darkest moments. By exploring these themes, viewers can learn valuable lessons on how to keep their friends close.

**1. The Power of Shared Experiences**
In *Stranger Things*, shared experiences play a crucial role in cementing friendships. The characters frequently face bizarre and dangerous situations that require trust and teamwork. These adventures create lasting memories that strengthen their bonds. This reflects real life, where friends who go through unique experiences together often grow closer.

**2. Navigating Conflicts and Differences**
The series also portrays how friends handle conflicts and disagreements. While the characters sometimes clash or misunderstand each other, they manage to resolve issues through open conversations and compromise. This aspect illustrates that disagreements are a natural part of any relationship, but with patience and understanding, they can lead to deeper connections.

**3. Support During Difficult Times**
One of the central themes in *Stranger Things* is the unwavering support friends offer during tough times. Whether confronting personal struggles or external threats, the characters stand by each other unconditionally. This emotional backing highlights the importance of having friends who provide strength and comfort when life gets hard—true friendship means being there for one another, no matter what.

**4. Embracing Individuality Within Group Dynamics**
The show emphasizes the value of embracing each individual’s uniqueness within a group. Every character contributes their own strengths and perspectives, creating a diverse yet cohesive team. This mirrors real-life friendships, where appreciating differences enriches group interactions. When everyone feels valued for who they are, working towards common goals becomes more meaningful and enjoyable.

*Stranger Things* reminds us that friendship is multifaceted—built on shared experiences, honest communication, steadfast support, and respect for individuality. These lessons from the Upside Down resonate far beyond the screen, encouraging us to nurture the unbreakable bonds in our own lives.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/what-stranger-things-gets-right-about-friendship-dynamics/story